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Written Answers to Questions Office of the First Minister and
Deputy First Minister Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister PSNI Chief Constable Mr McFarland asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what plans it has to meet the new PSNI Chief Constable. (AQO 15/02) Reply: No meeting with the new Chief Constable has yet been scheduled in our diaries. Obstacles to Mobility Study Mr Gallagher asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what action is being taken on Recommendation 5 of the North/South Obstacles to Mobility Study which considered the implications for Tax Treatment for Frontier Workers. (AQO 42/02) Reply: At the Plenary meeting of the North/South Ministerial Council on 28 June, the Council considered a paper by the Joint Steering Group on the Study of Obstacles to Cross-Border Mobility on the island of Ireland. The paper was drawn up following a widespread consultation exercise involving Government Departments, North and South and, on non-devolved matters, with the responsible Department in London, and with individuals. It summarised and evaluated each of the Consultants’ fifty recommendations and placed them into five categories. Recommendation 5 stated that UK authorities should consider introducing tax relief for NI residents who are frontier workers. This issue is the responsibility of the Inland Revenue which put forward the view that the proposal went beyond removing obstacles to mobility and proposed a tax subsidy to residents of Northern Ireland to work in the Republic. The Council agreed at its previous Plenary in November 2001 that in considering proposals, care should be taken to avoid creating unjustified advantage for cross-border workers beyond that available in the respective jurisdiction. Given these factors the Steering Group placed recommendation 5 in Category 5 – proposing that no further action be taken at this time. The Council agreed the Steering Group’s evaluation and work is now proceeding at official level on those recommendations contained in Categories Two, Three and Four. The member will wish to note that that work incorporates a number of recommendations related to the provision of information on the actual personal tax position in Northern Ireland and the Republic and the development of guidelines to minimise the impact of differences in North/South tax years. It is hoped that details of the Double Taxation Agreement between the UK and the Republic, which may give rise to adverse implications for some NI residents working in the Republic, can also be made more generally available as part of the implementation of these recommendations. PSI Report on Travelling People Ms Lewsley asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to give an update on the PSI Report on Travelling People. (AQO 45/02) Reply: Work on the Executive’s Response to the Promoting Social Inclusion (PSI) Report on Travellers is at an advanced stage. Members of the PSI Working Group have been kept informed of progress. We are aiming to publish the Executive’s Response to the PSI Report on Travelling People in the Autumn of 2002. Needs and Effectiveness Evaluation Mr McHugh asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to initiate a ‘Needs and Effectiveness Evaluation’ on (a) Agriculture and (b) Rural Development. (AQO 51/02) Reply: Six Needs and Effectiveness Evaluations were launched last year. As the Programme for Government and the Executive’s Position Report advised there were also major studies underway in other policy and programme areas, including Agriculture. The Executive has not yet considered the extension of the programme of needs and effectiveness evaluations. Ministers will wish to take stock of the work to date and learn from the experience of the first six studies. We also need to take into consideration the other major policy reviews which have been underway. In the case of agriculture and rural development, we will want to consider the impact of reforms to the Common Agricultural Policy as well as the work to implement the Vision report , the response to the O’Hare Report, and the DARD modernisation programme before deciding how best to proceed. Reform and Re-Investment Initiative Rev Robert Coulter asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what progress has been made during the summer months with the Reform and Re-Investment Initiative. (AQO 16/02) Reply: Progress on the Re-Investment and Reform Initiative (RRI) has been made on several fronts: We announced on 2 July 2002 a package of short term financial allocations to tackle the infrastructure deficit that will see £270m spent across Northern Ireland on 29 significant projects over the next two years. Several key infrastructure projects have already been agreed including a new Cancer Centre; strategic road improvement and structural maintenance, including the widening of the M1 approaching Belfast; capital investment in water and sewerage and; the replacement of 20% of mobile classrooms across Northern Ireland with permanent accommodation. The Project Board met several times during the summer months and brought forward initial proposals to the Executive on 23 July 2002. The Executive agreed that further work should be done to develop these proposals. Over the past weeks we have been taking forward intensive work on preparation of draft legislation to implement the Reinvestment and Reform Initiative, which is due to be discussed by the Executive shortly. The RRI Project Board has continued to meet and consider the detailed remit of the strategic investment body and has visited the security sites being transferred to the Executive under the initiative. The Partnership and Regeneration Panel (PRP) for the Ebrington Barracks site has been established to bring forward proposals for the Executive’s consideration on: - (i) the potential role of the Ebrington Barracks within the wider strategic development of the North West and (ii) the most appropriate vehicle to take this forward During the summer the PRP established offices in the Waterside area, near to Ebrington Barracks, and had its first meeting on 2 September 2002. The Panel, which includes local representatives from central and local government, community and business sectors, has been consulting and involving local community and business groups in developing ideas. It has also established linkages and developed relationships with other initiatives in the North West. We expect the PRP’s recommendations to be delivered to the Executive during December 2002. Review of Public Administration Dr O’Hagan asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what criteria were used to appoint the independent panel of experts for the Review of Public Administration. (AQO 52/02) Reply: The aim of the Executive was to have a strong independent panel with a broad range of skills and backgrounds. Specifically we sought to appoint recognised experts in governance and organizational change, and also wanted some current international expertise in those fields. We believe we have managed to appoint a well balanced panel of very high caliber experts, and are confident they will make a valuable contribution throughout the Review process. Number of Staff Dr McDonnell asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to detail the number of staff working in its office on equality issues in comparison to similar areas in relevant departments in Britain. (AQO 32/02) Reply: As of 2 September 2002 the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister has 49 staff working on equality issues including a legal assistant. The divisions are supported by the Departmental Solicitor’s Office. In Great Britain the work is spread across 4 Departments which have approximately 212 staff with comparable responsibilities who are supported by legal teams in each Department. Meetings with Foreign Minister Mr Armstrong asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to outline (a) any meetings held recently with the Foreign Minister and (b) what these meetings entailed. (AQO 50/02) Reply: We jointly met with the Foreign Secretary, Jack Straw, during his visit to Belfast on 27 August. We discussed a range of European Union policy matters including the Convention on the Future of Europe, enlargement and the Northern Ireland Executive’s interaction with the United Kingdom Government. Review of Community Relations Mr A Maginness asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to give an update on the Review of Community Relations. (AQO 43/02) Reply: A consultation paper covering a wide range of community relations issues is at an advanced stage of drafting. It is anticipated that this will be submitted to the Executive for consideration in the near future and, following Executive approval, it will be published. Respondents will have a period of two months in which to communicate their views to our department.
Agriculture and Rural Development Fodder: Winter Problems Mr Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what plans she has to help farmers avoid animal feeding and health-related problems this winter, resulting from the shortage and poor quality of fodder. (AQW 35/02) The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (Ms Rodgers): My Department is working on a range of initiatives to help the industry cope with the effects of the unprecedented weather conditions experienced for much of this year’s growing season. Advisory staff have been very active over the summer months, providing advice and information through direct contacts, mailings and the media. As we now head into the autumn, my Department has developed a comprehensive Winter Management Options programme to provide further targeted assistance. The programme comprises a series of local events aimed at providing farmers and growers with research and technical information to help them cope with potential fodder shortages and poor fodder quality this coming winter. The programme will also include workshops for arable producers, addressing issues such as possible storage problems which may arise as a consequence of wet harvesting conditions and crop diseases. The Winter Management Options programme will commence with Open Days at the Agricultural Research Institute of Northern Ireland on the 25 and 26 September and will roll out to other venues thereafter. Apart from helping farmers address the practical problems being experienced or which are likely to arise, I am also exploring what adjustments can be made to EU support mechanisms to ease the situation. Last month, we were successful in securing a relaxation from the EU Commission of the grazing restrictions on set-aside land and last week, DEFRA made a formal request on our behalf to the EU Beef Management Committee seeking an increase in the level of advance cattle premia payments in order to assist the cash flow position of livestock farmers. Last month, I also announced a relaxation of the restrictions on the import of unprocessed hay and straw from GB into Northern Ireland as a further measure to help the local industry. Weather aid is another option which I am exploring. However, any case that we might make to Brussels seeking State Aid approval to provide weather aid must be based on concrete evidence of the losses incurred. State Aid Guidelines lay down strict criteria in this respect which must be met before any proposed assistance can even be considered for approval by the EU Commission. Obviously, we can not make an assessment of these losses until after the end of the growing season. We would then have to build our case and take it through the EU State Aid approval process. My officials have arranged to meet key Commission personnel in the autumn to explore what may be possible under State Aid rules in light of the available evidence at that point. Apart from the necessary approval process, there is also the issue of identifying the necessary resources to fund such a measure. There are no central EU funds against which we could bid for this purpose. Therefore, we would have to find the money from within Northern Ireland and, as you will appreciate, there are many competing demands from other areas. I have already alerted the Minister of Finance and Personnel and my other Executive colleagues of the difficulties in the industry and will keep them informed of the developing situation. Waterfall Walk, Glenariff Mr Paisley Jnr asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline the timetable and resources allocated for improvements to the Waterfall walk in Glenariff. (AQW 52/02) Ms Rodgers: My Department has drawn up outline plans for the repair and any necessary re-construction of the Glenariff Forest Park Waterfall Walkway, part of which was closed in autumn 2001 for health and safety reasons. Funding amounting to £300k was allocated at the end of June 2002. My officials are in discussion with Construction Service on the most effective use of the funds. The Forest Service plans to re-establish reasonable and suitable access to the main waterfall feature from the main Glenariff Forest car park by Easter 2003. Work is expected to commence in early October. Sheep Annual Premium Scheme Mr Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what plans she has to bring forward the date for releasing cheques in respect of the Sheep Annual Premium Scheme (SAPS). (AQW 67/02) Ms Rodgers: The earliest that 2002 Sheep Annual Premium payments can be made under EC Regulations is from the start of the new FEOGA year, on 16 October. The Department therefore plans to commence payment from that date. Allowing for the time required for the payments to clear through the Department’s accounting system and to be transferred into producers’ bank accounts or to arrive by post, they should be received from 24 October onwards. If there is any change in the start date of the new FEOGA year, the start of payments will be adjusted accordingly. Payments will include the basic premium, the Sheep National Envelope funding which is being paid as a top-up to the basic premium and the Rural World Supplement. Together these will be worth £19.4million to the industry. It is anticipated that all eligible producers (circa 8500) will have received their payments by the end of October. Veterinary Medicinal Products Mr Hussey asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to Article 67 of the European Commission’s proposal on the directive on veterinary medicinal products and relative to amendments to Commission’s proposals PE 293.690/29-115 to be debated and voted on in early September in the European Parliament’s Environmental Committee, to consider and make it her policy to support Amendments 109, 110 and 112, and further to inform Northern Ireland’s MEPs of her support. (AQW 71/02) Ms Rodgers: Under Article 67 of the European Commission’s proposals all veterinary medicines for use in food-producing animals would require a veterinary prescription. A prescription would also be required for any product containing an active substance authorised for less than 7 years. The UK government supports amendments to Article 67 tabled by members of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Consumer Policy. These would enable a flexible approach to the distribution of veterinary medicinal products that takes advantage of existing national practices so long as consumer protection and animal welfare can be demonstrably assured. Officials from the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, acting on behalf of the UK Health and Agriculture Ministers, are participating in Council Working Group negotiations and have given presentations and provided information to UK and other MEPs to ensure that they are fully aware of the UK’s views and to seek their support in discussions in the European Parliament. Flooding Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the progress of the inter-agency approach aimed at addressing the causes of flooding in the Carrickfergus and Newtownabbey areas; and to make a statement. (AQW 101/02) Ms Rodgers: I am pleased to say that the inter-Agency approach between my Department’s Rivers Agency and DRD Water and Road Services to flooding, established in 1999, is proving productive in not only improving the response but also tackling the causes. To this end Rivers Agency intends to initiate a debrief of the flooding event of 21 June. Rivers Agency, in conjunction with other Agencies, has investigated that incident. All Agencies identified that the unexpected intensity and severity of the rainfall was a major factor in the flooding. As a matter of course Rivers Agency is reviewing those flooding incidents which fall within its remit. In addition, in recognition of the inter-related causes of flooding at Whiteabbey village and Carrickfergus DRD Road Service, Water Service and DARD Rivers Agency are jointly commissioning a study of drainage infrastructure in these areas. This study will be led by Rivers Agency who are in the process of engaging a Consulting Engineer. This joined-up approach should result in recommendations for improvement of the drainage infrastructure to alleviate the risk of future flooding.
Fishing Rod Licensing: River Bush Mr Paisley Jnr asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to outline, in each of the last 3 years, the amount of revenue received from fishing rod licensing on special sections of the River Bush. (AQW 2/02) The Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (Mr McGimpsey): As the Fisheries Conservancy Board does not issue separate fishing rod licences to anglers for the special sections of the River Bush, there is no such information available. However, my Department issues day tickets to anglers for fishing on the river. The number of day tickets sold, and the income received, for each of the stretches in the last three years, is set out in the following table. The income is rounded to the nearest pound sterling. River Bush Day Ticket Sales
River Bush Mr Kane asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if he has received evidence which would cause him concerns over the continued existence of a permanent barrier on the River Bush at the research station in Bushmills, Co Antrim. (AQW 177/02) Mr McGimpsey: The barrier to which you refer is the means by which salmon are diverted into trapping facilities. The ability to trap and thereby monitor the salmon stock is fundamental to the internationally regarded research work carried out at the salmon station. I am aware that some anglers contend that this arrangement is harmful to fish and/or affects their ability to ascend the river system to spawn. No evidence has ever been presented to substantiate this claim. Should such evidence be available I shall of course review the current arrangements.
Irish Language Schools: Research Contract Dr Birnie asked the Minister of Education if the research contract relating to Irish Language Schools: ‘outcomes for pupils who receive Irish medium education in Northern Ireland’, awarded to Hanna & Co, was subject to an open tendering process. (AQW 26/02) The Minister of Education (Mr M McGuinness): Yes, the research contract was subject to an open tendering process. An advertisement seeking expressions of interest appeared in the Belfast Telegraph, Irish News and News Letter on 6 January 1998. School Transport Service Mr Bradley asked the Minister of Education if he will undertake to extend the school transport service the 0.5 miles necessary to assure the safety of children from Lairds Road that attend St Colman’s Primary School, Annaclone. (AQW 33/02) Mr M McGuinness: The operation of the home to school transport arrangements in this case is a matter for the Southern Education and Library Board. Pupils living on Lairds Road who travel to St Colman’s Primary School, Annaclone do not attend their nearest suitable school. Under current arrangements they are therefore not entitled to transport assistance. In these circumstances responsibility for the safety of the pupils rests with the parents.
Enterprise, Trade and Investment Cellular Phone Charges Mr Bradley asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment will he undertake, in conjunction with his Ministerial counterpart in the Republic of Ireland, to open negotiations with the cellular phone operators with the aim of eliminating the international charging rates that currently apply to cross border calls. (AQW 10/02) The Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (Sir Reg Empey): Pricing for mobile calls is a market issue. Introduction of pricing controls would be a regulatory matter and the responsibility of OFTEL. However, because of problems in border regions resulting in international roaming charges for mobile users, my officials have already impressed on both OFTEL and DTI the importance of an early resolution of this matter. There have been a number of studies on this issue, including work undertaken by the Northern Ireland Advisory Committee on Telecommunications (NIACT), the Northern Ireland Centre for Cross Border Studies, and a joint study in April 2002 by OFTEL and the Office of the Director of Telecommunications Regulation (ODTR) in Dublin on consumer awareness of mobile roaming. In January 2002 Europe’s Competition Commissioner, Mario Monti, announced a comprehensive investigation into the price of international roaming of mobile calls. My officials will be monitoring progress of this important Commission investigation to ensure that it addresses the need to source a resolution to this international disparity. Tourism and Mrs Nelis asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail, by constituency, the awards by the NITB for Tourism and Marketing Development Projects. (AQW 23/02) Sir Reg Empey: Based on computer records held, the amount of the selective financial assistance offered by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board to develop accommodation, amenity and visitor attractions and events support in each constituency for the period 1 April 1997 to 31 March 2002 is as follows:
(1) Some events support offered between 1997-1999 not included because data not held on a constituency basis. (2) A further £261,107 was offered to projects which were not constituency specific. In addition an amount totalling £4,390,271 was offered to marketing projects in Northern Ireland during the period in question. Information on these projects is not available on a constituency basis. Purpose-Built Guest Houses Mr Bradley asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment will he make it his policy to grant aid the provision of purpose-built guest houses in the same way as grant aid is currently offered to new hotels and self-catering establishments. (AQW 36/02) Sir Reg Empey: Entry costs to the guesthouse/bed and breakfast sector are generally low, and new developments may therefore only be considered in the following specific circumstances:
Assistance is not provided towards the establishment of guesthouse and bed and breakfast business. Priority is given to those applicants who hold a current NITB Certificate and have operated a property satisfactorily for at least one year with a minimum of 2 letting bedrooms in a bed and breakfast property and 3 letting bedrooms in a guesthouse. This policy ensures both sustainable development in the sector and value for money in the use of public funding.
Dyslexia: Driving Licences Mr Bradley asked the Minister of the Environment if he will undertake to issue driving licenses to those drivers that pass the practical element of their driving test but fail the written section due to severe Dyslexia. (AQW 31/02) The Minister of the Environment (Mr Nesbitt): The prescribed driving test consists of both theoretical and practical elements. In order to obtain a full driving licence an applicant must pass both elements. A candidate cannot undertake a practical driving test until he/she has passed the theory test. The theory test is an important road safety measure designed to help to ensure that learner drivers are fully prepared with the necessary knowledge and understanding before they get full licences. It was recognised that the theory test might present difficulties to some candidates who could take and pass the practical driving test. The intention is that the theory test should discriminate only on the basis of knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, so arrangements are made to ensure that candidates who have special needs are not disadvantaged. Candidates who have dyslexia or who have difficulties with learning or literacy are allowed extra time to complete the test. In addition, candidates may make use of the audio voiceover facility, which allows them to listen to the test through headphones. Given that help is already available for those with severe dyslexia I see no need to make changes to the existing requirement. Waste Water Treatment Works Mr Davis asked the Minister of the Environment to outline (a) the circumstances that have resulted in recent difficulties regarding Planning and Waste Water Treatment Works and (b) any steps he is taking to rectify the situation. (AQW 73/02) Mr Nesbitt: My Department has a general statutory duty to promote the conservation and cleanliness of water resources and must also take account of the requirements of relevant Directives of the European Community with respect to safeguarding water quality. This current situation came to attention earlier this year when there was an overall reduction in the compliance of Waste Water Treatment Works with EU and domestic environmental standards. The Environment and Heritage Service of my Department highlighted concerns over the quality of discharges and risks of water pollution from sewage treatment plants and sewerage networks at a number of locations in Northern Ireland. In the areas affected, Planning Service is consulting the Water Management Unit, EHS, and the Water Service of Department for Regional Development on current planning applications. Planning applications in the affected areas are being held on a precautionary basis pending the outcome of current discussions between the DOE and DRD. I, with Peter Robinson, the DRD Minister, have asked that discussions between EHS and Water Service officials be completed and that recommendations be made to us by mid-September. This will clarify locations where EHS has concerns over water quality issues and how these should be dealt with in planning terms. Planning Applications: Moratorium Mr McGrady asked the Minister of the Environment to state when the moratorium, which was imposed on the processing of planning applications for 60 settlements in NI, will be removed. (AQW 125/02) Mr Nesbitt: I would stress that there is no general moratorium on planning decisions. My Department’s position is that the Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) has concerns over the quality of discharges and risks of water pollution from waste water treatment plants and sewerage works at a number of locations in Northern Ireland. In the areas affected, Planning Service is consulting the Water Management Unit, EHS, and the Water Service of Department for Regional Development on current planning applications. Planning applications in the affected areas are being held on a precautionary basis pending the outcome of current discussions between the DOE and DRD. I, with Peter Robinson, the DRD Minister, have asked that discussions between EHS and Water Service officials be completed and that recommendations be made to us by mid-September. This will clarify locations where EHS has concerns over water quality issues and how these should be dealt with in planning terms. In the meantime, Divisional Planning Offices have been instructed that no applications at present should be taken to Council for consultation with opinions to refuse on the basis of advice from the Water Management Unit. Station Road, Crossgar Mr McGrady asked the Minister of the Environment when the planning certificate for the housing development at Station Road, Crossgar will be issued to the developer/applicant. (AQW 126/02) Mr Nesbitt: Down District Council was consulted on 17 June 2002 with an opinion to grant planning permission for the proposed residential development of 54 houses and 9 apartments on lands to the rear of 65 Downpatrick Street, Crossgar, adjacent to Station Road. However, a decision on this proposal and a number of other applications is currently being held, on a precautionary basis, pending the outcome of urgent discussions between my Department and the Department for Regional Development regarding concerns over the quality of discharges and risks of water pollution from sewage treatment plants and networks at a number of locations throughout Northern Ireland, including Crossgar. I, with Peter Robinson, the DRD Minister, have asked that discussions between EHS and Water Service officials be completed and that recommendations be made to us by mid-September. This will clarify locations where EHS has concerns over water quality issues and how these should be dealt with in planning terms. Planning Procedures: Mrs Courtney asked the Minister of the Environment what measures have been put in place to alleviate the pressures experienced by local developers until the EU Directives have been met, given the long-lasting moratorium on planning procedures in the Derry City Council area. (AQO 69/02) Mr Nesbitt: As I have stated, there is not a moratorium on planning approvals in Northern Ireland. There are concerns over the risks of water pollution from sewage treatment plants and sewerage networks in a number of areas, one of which includes the Culmore Water Waste Treatment Works serving Derry City Coucil and some adjacent areas. These concerns raised complex, legal, environmental and operational issues. As a precautionary measure, Planning Service is holding planning applications in these areas, pending the outcome of urgent discussions between my Department and the Department for Regional Development. I am acutely aware of the concerns of the development industry and public representatives about the precautionary steps which my Department has taken. Indeed, I met with a delegation from Derry City Council less than 2 weeks ago to hear their concerns. Balancing the need for development with the need to protect the environment represents a major challenge for my Department and this was accepted by the delegation. I am fully committed to an early, balanced and pragmatic resolution. I recently met with the Minister for Regional Development and we agreed that officials in our Departments should engage in urgent discussions and make recommendations to us by mid September. In advance of receiving these recommendations, I have acted to release a number of planning applications by agreeing that development proposals that had received outline approval, but were being held on a precautionary basis, should be processed to decision stage. I have also announced that applications that were being held in relation to seven areas should now be processed to decision stage by the Planning Service. At my meeting with the representatives from Derry City Council, I gave an undertaking to secure a speedy resolution to this issue. Planning Applications: Mr C Murphy asked the Minister of the Environment what number of planning applications for mobile telecommunications masts were (a) submitted; (b) refused; (c) granted; and (d) withdrawn, in each of the last 5 years. (AQO 53/02) Mr Nesbitt: As the information the Member has requested contains a considerable amount of detail and would take some time to present orally, I have arranged for a copy to be made available in the Assembly library for Members’ consideration. ‘Spot-Listing’ Dr McDonnell asked the Minister of the Environment what progress has been made towards securing powers of ‘spot-listing’ in Northern Ireland; and to make a statement. (AQO 33/02) Mr Nesbitt: The Planning (Amendment) Bill contains provisions which will enable the Department to serve a Building Preservation Notice to protect a building considered to be of special architectural or historic interest, which is in danger of demolition or alteration. This will provide a fast track method for the consideration of listing buildings and will enable the Department to respond much more quickly in circumstances where buildings are considered to be at risk. The temporary listing will last for up to 6 months and will equate to ‘normal’ listing, i.e., protection from damage, alteration or demolition. After this, the building must be formally listed or the temporary listing will lapse. The Bill is currently at Committee Stage and it is anticipated that it will become law early in 2003. Development Constraints: Mr Poots asked the Minister of the Environment what areas in the Lagan Valley constituency were affected by the announcement of development constraints as a result of inadequate sewerage disposal. (AQO 37/02) Mr Nesbitt: The areas affected in the Lagan Valley constituency are Maghaberry, Glenavy, Upper Ballinderry and Ravernet. However, the Member will be pleased to note that I announced on 3 September seven areas in which the Planning Service would now begin to process these applications to decision stage, and one of those areas is Maghaberry. The reason for this is because after examination there is not sufficient evidence of environmental impact to require related planning applications to be held on a precautionary basis. TELECOMMUNICATIONS APPLICATIONS 1998-2002
F – Full Footnote: It is not possible to draw a direct comparison between the number of applications received in a given year and the number determined/withdrawn due to the numbers carried over from the preceding year and into the following year. Telecommunications Mast: Mr Bradley asked the Minister of the Environment what assessment he has made on the planning procedures relating to Crown Castle’s application associated with the provision of a proposed telecommunications mast at ‘The Rocks’, Rathfriland. (AQO 8/02) Mr Nesbitt: I have not been involved in the planning decision relating to this application. I am advised that the development relates to the proposed installation of 4 pole mounted radio antennae at roof level on an out building to the rear of 20 Main Street, Rathfriland. In addition 2 radio equipment housing units and access ladder are to be installed at ground level. Details of the proposed development were submitted by Crown Castle on behalf of T-Mobile on 20 June 2002. T-Mobile is a licensed Telecommunications Code System Operator. At the time of the submission, works carried out by licensed operators were permitted development under the Planning (General Development) Order (Northern Ireland) 1993 (as amended). The new legislation requiring full planning permission for new telecommunications development came into force on 21 June 2002. Permitted development was conditional upon the operator applying to the Department for a determination as to whether prior approval was required for the siting and appearance of the proposal. In this instance the Department determined that prior approval for the siting and appearance was required, hence the submission dated 20 June 2002. The Department processed the prior approval application in the normal manner within the 28 days required by the legislation in force at that time and granted prior approval on 16 July 2002. My assessment on the planning procedures, and the circumstances surrounding this application, indicates clear merit in moving to the new legislation that became operable on 21 June 2002. Infrastructure Neglect Mr Molloy asked the Minister of the Environment what assessment he can make in relation to the infrastructure neglect in many council areas, including any plans he has to bring forward legislation on the matter; and to make a statement. (AQO 54/02) Mr Nesbitt: The Regional Development Strategy published in September 2001 by the Department for Regional Development, sets out the Government’s strategy for the future development of Northern Ireland to 2025. It contains a Spatial Development Strategy and related Strategic Planning Guidelines which aim to provide long-term policy directions which, in relation to my Department, provide the framework for the preparation of planning policies and development plans. The aim of the Spatial Development Strategy is to promote a balanced and equitable pattern of sustainable development across all district council areas and to enable all communities to contribute fully to the prosperity of their local area and Northern Ireland as a whole. While this Strategy has regard for existing infrastructure and services it also establishes the need for new investment and informs decisions on related priorities. Set against this strategic development framework, my Department, through the Planning Service, is responsible for the preparation of development plans for individual or groups of district council areas. The purpose of these statutory documents is to set out the local planning policy framework and land use proposals used to guide development decisions within the Plan area. Development plans aim to facilitate sustainable and quality growth and development while protecting and where appropriate enhancing the environment and in turn have regard for existing infrastructure investment and establish the need for new investment. Overall, however, the responsibilities of my Department lie in the provision of the regulatory framework for development. Other Departments and service providers carry responsibility, for example, for the delivery of water and sewerage, drainage, waste, telecommunications and transportation infrastructure and other necessary services. Transportation of Nuclear Material Mrs Nelis asked the Minister of the Environment to make a statement on the transportation of nuclear material through the Irish Sea to Sellafield. (AQO 63/02) Mr Nesbitt: The transportation of nuclear material through the Irish Sea is the responsibility of the Department of Transport, Regions and Local Government in Whitehall. However, during a recent visit to Sellafield, I visited the BNFL marine terminal in Barrow in Furness to discuss relevant safety and security issues and to view the facilities aboard the Pacific Sandpiper, one of a fleet of ships specifically designed to transport nuclear materials. The ship is designed with a double hull to withstand the broadside impact of a fully laden oil tanker. It is equipped with state-of-the art navigation and security measures and is manned by a highly-trained crew. I was informed that to date, the fleet has travelled four and a half million miles without a single incident involving radioactivity. Tourist Facilities Mr Beggs asked the Minister of the Environment to detail the number of tourist facilities owned by his department and which are operated in conjunction with District Councils. (AQO 39/02) Mr Nesbitt: My Department’s Environment and Heritage Service owns around 235 heritage properties. Some 14 District Councils are involved with my Department’s Environment and Heritage Service in aspects of the operation of some 30 of these properties. 10 of these 30 properties include significant tourist facilities. Fermanagh District Council operates a local heritage museum within Enniskillen Castle and provides an information service for our Marlbank reserves. Limavady Borough Council operates a local heritage museum in an Environment and Heritage Service building at Roe Valley Country Park and a car park at Banagher Glen. Derry City Council opens and provides guides to the City Walls. Lisburn City Council opens and operates a Tourism Information Centre at Hillsborough Courthouse and opens a car park at the Giant’s Ring. Ards Borough Council opens and operates a Tourism Information Centre at Portaferry Castle. The Environment and Heritage Service co-operates closely with Carrickfergus Borough Council over the use of Carrickfergus Castle for functions and events. The Environment and Heritage Service also consults District Councils over the operation of its other major State Care Monuments. Road Safety Officers Mr McCarthy asked the Minister of the Environment how many Road Safety Officers are in post now compared to (a) two years ago and (b) the approved complement. (AQO 49/02) Mr Nesbitt: The Department currently has 21 Road Safety Education Officers in post which compares with: (a) 11 in post two years ago; and (b) the approved complement of 21. Increased resources for road safety in 2001/2002 enabled my Department to appoint 10 additional officers in May 2001. As a result my Department is able to provide enhanced support for teachers in promoting road safety in schools and to introduce new initiatives, including practical child pedestrian safety training at the roadside and providing advice to parents and guardians on the proper fitment of child safety restraints in cars. Plastic Bag Levy Mr ONeill asked the Minister of the Environment whether, given the recently announced success of the plastic bag levy in the Republic of Ireland, he has plans to introduce a similar levy. (AQO 21/02) Mr Nesbitt: In the UK as a whole, around 10 billion plastic bags are given away each year. That constitutes a significant source of landfill and an equally significant source of litter. The primary issue here is whether our Administration can legislate for a tax or levy in Northern Ireland which would correspond to that deployed so successfully in the Republic of Ireland. As I indicated to the Assembly in my response to Ms Morrice’s question on plastic bags on 30 May 2002, my legal advice is that the Assembly has no legislative competence in this matter. I am, however, seeking further advice on that point. I am aware that Michael Meacher at the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), given the success of the plastic bags levy in the Republic of Ireland, has given notice that he intends to consider among other options the introduction of a similar levy in the UK. It is my intention to support DEFRA in this. I will raise the issue at meetings of the Environment Sector of the British-Irish Council. However the objective on this matter can be addressed in other ways. My officials have been exploring options which might have an equivalent effect to the levy. They have already engaged in discussions with representatives from the supermarket sector to look at the possibility of developing a voluntary scheme to encourage consumers to reduce the current excessive use of plastic bags. The idea of ‘bags for life’ is an example of a possible alternative to a tax on plastic bags. The experience of the Republic of Ireland has shown that people are willing to act with greater environmental responsibility when given appropriate encouragement. I am hopeful that we can build constructively on the heightened awareness of waste issues brought about by my Department’s recent ‘Wake up to Waste’ campaign. Waste Water Treatment Works Mr Armstrong asked the Minister of the Environment what contact he has had with the Department for Regional Development regarding the non-compliance of waste water treatment works with EU environmental regulations. (AQO 62/02) Mr Nesbitt: I have been working together with Minister Robinson, and my officials with their counterparts in the Department for Regional Development, to seek to resolve the current situation. This involves consideration of complex legal, environmental and operational issues. Most recently I met with Minister Robinson on 22 August following which, in a joint statement, we committed ourselves and our two Departments to giving top priority to seeking a balanced and pragmatic resolution, consistent with our Departments’ statutory obligations. We tasked our officials to bring forward recommendations to us for resolving the difficulties by mid-September. I am meeting Minister Robinson again shortly and anticipate that the necessary balanced and pragmatic resolution will ease the position considerably [and I will make an early statement to the Assembly].
Health Centre, Kilkeel Mr Bradley asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel what assessment he has made of the application for funding towards the provision of a new Health Centre in Kilkeel. (AQW 9/02) The Minister of Finance and Personnel (Dr Farren): I am pleased to confirm that the Executive has already approved the funding of a new Health Centre in Kilkeel as part of the successful "Essential Hospital Capacity" Reinvestment and Reform Initiative bid. The business case was also approved by my Department in January of this year.
Health, Social Services and Public Safety Hearing Aids Mr Weir asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline any plans she has to make digital hearing aids available through the Health Service. (AQW 13/02) The Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (Ms de Brún): I am committed to providing digital hearing aids as soon as funding permits. The necessary funding is not available at this time. A bid for funding has been made in the current Spending Review. Tá mé geallta le háiseanna digiteacha éisteachta a sholáthar a luaithe agus a bheidh an maoiniú ar fáil dóibh. Níl an maoiniú atá riachtanach ar fáil ag an am seo. Rinneadh tairiscint le haghaidh maoinithe san Athbhreithniú láitheach ar Chaiteachas. Hearing Aids Mr Weir asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how do analogue hearing aids compare with modern digital hearing aids. (AQW 14/02) Ms de Brún: The nature of an individual’s hearing impairment and the level of residual hearing are key determining factors on whether a hearing aid is prescribed, and the type recommended. The range of analogue hearing aids currently available includes behind-the-ear, in-ear, programmable and belt-worn aids. Current prices for analogue hearing aids range from £18 to £200, whilst digital hearing aids range from £54 to £300. Digital hearing aids offer better sound quality and are more reliable. Is tosca tábhachtacha iad sórt lag-éisteachta an duine aonair agus leibhéal a n-éisteachta iarmharaí nuair atá cinneadh á dhéanamh ar cé acu a ordaítear nó nach n-ordaítear áis éisteachta, agus ar an sórt áise molta. Sa réimse d’áiseanna analógacha éisteachta ar fáil faoi láthair tá áiseanna cúlchluaise, sa chluas, agus áiseanna inríomhchláraithe agus crios-chaite. Tá na praghasanna láithreacha d’áiseanna analógacha éisteachta sa réimse ó £18 go £200, agus d’áiseanna digiteacha éisteachta sa réimse ó £54 go £300. Táirgíonn áiseanna digiteacha éisteachta caighdeán fuaime níos fearr agus bíonn siad níos buanseasmhaí. Hearing Aids Mr Weir asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline (a) the number of people in Northern Ireland who have received digital hearing aids through the Health Service; and (b) how this number compares with the rest of the United Kingdom. (AQW 15/02) Ms de Brún: As digital hearing aids are not currently available through the Health Service here, there is no basis for meaningful comparisons with Great Britain. Digital hearing aids are being introduced on an incremental basis there. Mar nach bhfuil áiseanna digiteacha éisteachta ar fáil faoi láthair tríd an tSeirbhís Sláinte anseo, níl bunús ar bith le comparáidí fiúntacha a dhéanamh eadrainn agus an Bhreatain Mhór. Tá áiseanna digiteacha éisteachta á dtionscnamh céim ar chéim ansin. Hearing Aids Mr Weir asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline (a) the number of people in Northern Ireland who have received analogue hearing aids through the health service and (b) how this number compares with the rest of the United Kingdom. (AQW 16/02) Ms de Brún: Information on the numbers of analogue hearing aids supplied through the health service is not held centrally, either here or in Great Britain. Níl eolas ar líon na n-áiseanna analógacha éisteachta a soláthraíodhar fud na seirbhíse sláinte ar fáil anseo go lárnach nó sa Bhreatain Mhór. Hearing Aids Mr Gibson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline her plans to introduce digital hearing aids to replace analogue hearing aids. (AQW 61/02) Ms de Brún: I refer the member to my answer to AQW 13/02. Treoraím an Comhalta do mo fhreagra a thug mé ar AQW 13/02. Waiting Lists: Mr Davis asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of people currently awaiting their first appointment as an out patient at the Lagan Valley Hospital for the periods (i) 0-6 months, (ii) 6-9 months, (iii) 9 months and over. (AQW 91/02) Ms de Brún: The information requested is not available. Níl fáil ar an eolas a iarradh. Waiting Lists: Rev Robert Coulter asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of people currently waiting for their first appointment as an out patient at Antrim Area Hospital for the periods; (i) 0-6 months, (ii) 6-9 months and (iii) 9 months and over. (AQW 107/02) Ms de Brún: The information requested is not available. Níl fáil ar an eolas a iarradh.
Public Car Parking: Mr Bradley asked the Minister for Regional Development if he will undertake to provide public car parking spaces to meet the current demands of traders and shoppers in Warrenpoint. (AQW 1/02) The Minister for Regional Development (Mr P Robinson): My Department’s Roads Service currently provides 275 car parking spaces within 4 car parks in or close to Warrenpoint town centre. A further 500 spaces are available in the town through on-street parking including end-on parking in Church Street and Duke Street. Together these facilities provide a greater than average density of parking close to shops. This parking provision is augmented by Newry & Mourne District Council’s substantial marina car park which is situated within easy reach of the town centre. Roads Service considers that the number of parking spaces available in Warrenpoint is adequate for the demand throughout the majority of the year. I understand that it is only during specific events, such as the Maid of the Mournes Festival, that resources are stretched and, given that these difficulties arise as a result of tourist-related events, their resolution is a matter for the Council. I can, however, advise that a survey of on-street and off-street parking patterns in Warrenpoint will be carried out during the autumn as a means of assessing the current uptake of the existing car parking spaces. In addition, I am pleased to inform you that a scheme to provide a new system of signing in the town to highlight the location of car parks will be carried out during the current financial year. Damaged Caused By Tar Mr Bradley asked the Minister for Regional Development what assessment he has made of (a) the damage to vehicles and property in different locations, during late July and early August, caused by tar following the resurfacing of roads; and (b) the difficulties being experienced by those submitting insurance claims relating to such damage. (AQW 7/02) Mr P Robinson: Around 485 compensation claims were received by the Department following the road resurfacing failures at a number of locations in late July. The contract between the Department and Tullyraine Quarries Limited contains a clause indemnifying the Department against third party claims of this nature. All the claims were therefore passed on to the Contractor, Tullyraine Quarries Limited, on 2 August 2002 and are now their responsibility. I have no information about difficulties experienced by those claimants when making an insurance claim. Fort Road, Belfast Mr Davis asked the Minister for Regional Development in relation to Fort Road, Belfast, to outline any plans he has for (a) the replacement of leaking water pipes and (b) the installation of mains sewers on the road. (AQW 45/02) Mr P Robinson: Fort Road is situated within a water pressure managed area, and earlier this year a faulty pressure-reducing valve in the road gave rise to complaints about high pressure, and leakage from internal plumbing fittings and showers. The valve was replaced and the pressure has been restored to normal levels. The watermain in Fort Road is not known to be especially susceptible to leakage, and is performing satisfactorily. Water Service has therefore no plans to replace it. Water Service has been replacing watermains in adjacent roads where there have been problems with the condition of the watermains, and this will improve water quality and standards of service to the customers in Fort Road. The feasibility of providing sewerage facilities for the Ballycairn area, including Fort Road, was considered some years ago. The cost of the scheme would have significantly exceeded the then reasonable cost allowance of £2,300 per property. The scheme would not have been economically viable without a contribution of some £1,800 per property. However, only 5 of the 98 properties were willing to contribute and the scheme could not proceed. To date, Water Service has not received any further applications for sewerage facilities in the area. The viability of the scheme will now be reassessed in light of the increase in the reasonable cost allowance to £4,000 per property. I will advise you of the outcome of the reassessment. Belfast City Airport: Ms McWilliams asked the Minister for Regional Development if his Department will carry out a noise-monitoring regime at Belfast City Airport and in the adjoining residential areas. (AQW 59/02) Mr P Robinson: Being aware of the concerns of many residents in east Belfast about noise from Belfast City Airport, I recently announced that my Department would undertake a review of the current arrangements employed in the monitoring of noise pollution at Northern Ireland’s three commercial airports. The review will examine the present arrangements for the reporting, analysis, interpretation and publication of noise pollution data and make recommendations for any improvements considered necessary. This will include the way noise-monitoring information is presented in the future so that it will be in a format that is easier to access and interpret. An extensive monitoring of noise pollution at Belfast City Airport was conducted in March 2002. The consultant’s report on their findings was published at the end of June and is currently being considered by my officials and colleagues in the Department of the Environment. Professor Callum Thomas of the Centre for Air Transport and the Environment, at Manchester Metropolitan University, who will undertake the review, will meet with the Belfast City Airport Forum, which includes representatives of the NI General Consumer Council, the airport management, the airlines, local residents and District Councils. Flooding: Mr Bradley asked the Minister for Regional Development what steps are being taken to ensure that the historic incidence of flooding at The Avenue, Burren, Warrenpoint, which was eliminated in 2001, will not recur as a result of the current upgrading of the junction of the B7 road and The Avenue. (AQW 133/02) Mr P Robinson: My Department’s Roads Service recently undertook a scheme at the section of Milltown Street (B7) and The Avenue, Burren. This included the upgrading of the drainage system on The Avenue with the provision of two new gullies to replace the one old gully, which was located in the centre of the road. The new gullies, with silt-traps, have been located on the northern edge of the road. The road was resurfaced on 9 September 2002 with a continuous fall to the northern side of the road to ensure that all water is caught by the new drainage system. My Department’s Roads Service is fully satisfied that flooding of The Avenue, Burren is less likely to take place following the resurfacing and auxiliary works. Belfast To Newry Road Mr Kennedy asked the Minister for Regional Development in light of the recent fatal accident at the Tinkers Hill / Sheepbridge section of the A1 Belfast Newry road, if he has any plans to (a) improve and upgrade; and (b) introduce additional safety measures at this section of the road. (AQW 166/02) Mr P Robinson: I was deeply saddened to hear of the recent tragic accident on the A1 at Turmore Road. I understand that officials from my Department’s Roads Service met with you on 10 September 2002, together with Newry & Mourne District Councillors, local residents and representatives of the Police Service of Northern Ireland, to discuss road safety issues relating to Tinker Hill in Newry. I can confirm that Roads Service will investigate the concerns highlighted at the meeting in relation to this stretch of road, as part of an assessment of the road conditions and traffic speeds at this location. Roads Service officials will report on the progress of this assessment at a follow-up meeting which has been arranged for Friday 25 October 2002. In the longer term, you will be aware that Roads Service commissioned consultants in April 2001 to investigate the feasibility of alternative options to provide a dual carriageway on the A1 between Beech Hill and Cloghogue, which includes the section of road in question. The consultants are considering the upgrading of the existing route or a possible new route from Beech Hill joining the Newry Bypass near Cloghogue. The approved options were presented to Newry and Mourne Council in August 2002 and a public exhibition will be held before December 2002. The ‘preferred option’ will be recommended in Spring 2003. This scheme is currently being considered, along with other worthwhile schemes for possible inclusion in the Roads Service Forward Planning Schedule which will be aligned with my Department’s 10-year Regional Transportation Strategy. Road Junction: Mr Kennedy asked the Minister for Regional Development in light of the recent fatal accident at the Newtownhamilton Road / Keady Road, Armagh junction, if he has any plans to (a) improve and upgrade; and (b) introduce additional safety measures at this section of road. (AQW 167/02) Mr P Robinson: I was deeply saddened to hear of the recent accident that occurred on the A29 Keady Road, at the junction of the B31 Newtownhamilton Road, Armagh on Thursday 5 September 2002, which, unfortunately, resulted in the death of 3 people. While my Department’s Roads Service has not yet received a detailed report on the accident from the police, officials are liaising closely with the local traffic police in this respect. In response to a number of requests received over recent years, Roads Service has included a scheme for the junction in their Minor Works Programme for 2002/2003. The details of the scheme, which will entail substantial improvements to the junction and bends in the vicinity, were outlined in Roads Service’s Spring 2002 Report presented to Armagh City and District Council. At present, Roads Service are finalising a design solution for the scheme, but you will appreciate that implementation of the scheme is subject to acquisition of the necessary land. As regards additional safety measures, Roads Service carried out an assessment of the nearby bend on the Keady Road in the vicinity of the junction in November 2001. This resulted in the provision of fluorescent yellow-bordered chevron signs and marker posts on the apex of the bend in March 2002. Bonfires Mr Bradley asked the Minister for Regional Development to explain (a) what he intends to do about the building and lighting of bonfires on land under his control and (b) how he intends to recover the cost of damages caused by bonfires. (AQO 7/02) Mr P Robinson: I do not condone the siting of bonfires where they will damage property, whether it is public or private property, and I urge those constructing them to act responsibly in that regard. Roads Service takes whatever action is possible to ensure that public thoroughfares are not obstructed by bonfires and that road safety is not compromised. The Roads Service policy is to remove any offending material where there is a danger to road users. Where there is no danger, Roads Service will seek the advice of the Police, taking account of the level of support within the local community, before deciding on a course of action. As to recovering the cost of bonfire damage, the Member will be aware that bonfires are generally built by members of local communities, rather than a single identifiable organisation. In those circumstances it is simply not practical to recover the cost of the damage from the many people responsible. Indeed, I rather suspect that the administrative and legal costs of doing so would far exceed the actual cost of repairs. Procurement Policy Mr Attwood asked the Minister for Regional Development to outline (a) how many contracts, to what value, and in what departmental areas, have been forwarded to the Public Procurement Board for consideration and inclusion in the pilot studies for procurement policy; and (b) what measures are being undertaken to assess each departmental contract for inclusion in the pilot studies; and to make a statement. (AQO 60/02) Mr P Robinson: Thank you for your question. I will deal with part (a) first. My Department has been invited by the Public Procurement Board to participate in the pilot study into the use of procurement contracts to assist the unemployed into work. My Department will be forwarding details of one contract to the Public Procurement Board for consideration and inclusion in this pilot study. This is a Water Service contract for services with a total value of £900,000. I will now respond to part (b) of your question. My officials have assessed all Departmental construction and services contracts against the criteria specified for the pilot study by the Public Procurement Board. I remain to be convinced of the merit of incorporating wider social and economic objectives within public procurement policy. It is essential that the number and spread of contracts considered within this pilot study be of sufficient scale to enable a meaningful analysis of the effectiveness of this policy to be undertaken. Value for money must remain the key determinant for public procurement and contract selection. Flooding: Lower Ormeau Road Area Dr McDonnell asked the Minister for Regional Development to outline (a) the extent of the works carried out by the Water Service on the lower Ormeau Road area of Belfast since July 2002 and (b) any future works planned in order to prevent flooding in that area. (AQO 34/02) Mr P Robinson: Since July 2002, my Department’s Water Service has continued to progress a flood alleviation scheme for the Lower Ormeau Road area, which was initiated following earlier flooding. The major elements of the scheme involve the replacement of four pumps in the River Terrace Pumping Station, duplication of approximately 150 metres of 2.1 metre diameter trunk sewer between Cooke Place and River Terrace Pumping Station, and the provision of 50 metres of emergency gravity overflow sewer to the River Lagan. The estimated cost of the scheme is in the region of £850,000. The installation of the four replacement pumps commenced on 18 April 2002 and was completed on 9 July 2002. Progress on laying the final length of the emergency gravity overflow, the duplicate sewer in Cooke Place, and with the installation of a penstock (valve) to control the operation of the overflow, was delayed by over four months due to difficulties with the relocation of a Northern Ireland Electricity High Voltage cable. Much of this work has now been completed, or is currently ongoing, and the expected completion date for the scheme is December 2002. When all elements of the scheme are completed and are operating together, the risk of flooding in the area will be significantly reduced. The implementation of the major Belfast sewer network upgrading scheme will further enhance the level of flood protection in the area. The scheme, which includes the construction of a main storm water management sewer along with additional structural and hydraulic upgrade work, is currently programmed to commence in 2004. It is expected to take 5-6 years to complete at an estimated cost in excess of £100 million. As well as the significant reduction to the risk of out of sewer flooding, substantial environmental benefits will accrue from the reduction in discharges from sewer overflows to the River Lagan, during storm conditions. Budget Allocation Mr McHugh asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the split of budget allocation from his (a) capital build programme; (b) road maintenance programme; and (c) overall Departmental Expenditure Limit allocation between areas west and east of the River Bann. (AQO 64/02) Mr P Robinson: I would refer the Member to a similar question which my predecessor answered on 8th October 2001. As on that occasion and in the absence of a precise definition of the area ‘west of the Bann’ I have collated what information there is available in relation to the nine Local Government Districts in Counties Fermanagh, Londonderry and Tyrone – an area with 27% of the total NI population. Of my Department’s total DEL Budget for 2001/02, around £120 million (about 23%) cannot be disaggregated on a strictly ‘east/west’ basis as it relates to general revenue and network based support for public transport, development costs, Agency and Core Headquarters staff salaries and general administration costs. Of the remainder approximately £118 million (29%) was invested ‘west of the Bann’. In respect of the capital budget around £40 million (about 24%), including the bulk of resources for public transport which are allocated on a network basis (e.g. investment on new buses and integrated ticketing), cannot be disaggregated as requested. However, some 28% of the remainder (£48 million), including expenditure on roads and water and sewerage, was invested west of the Bann. Capital allocations can vary considerably from year to year depending on the particular schemes being undertaken but I can confirm that average allocations ‘west of the Bann’ have increased over recent years. Finally, in respect of roads maintenance, allocations ‘west of the Bann’ amounted to 32% of the total budget in 2001/02 (around £30 million). Flooding: East Antrim Mr Beggs asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail (a) the number of claims made against his department as a result of sewage related flooding in the East Antrim area this year and (b) the percentage of these which have been successful to date. (AQO 40/02) Mr P Robinson: It is not possible, easily, to separate sewage related flooding claims from flooding claims from other sources. Since 1 January 2002 there has been 303 flooding claims against the Department from the Newtownabbey and Carrickfergus areas and, while a decision has not yet been made on four, all the others were turned down. Election of First Minister and Mr A Maginness asked the Minister for Regional Development, in respect of the legal action regarding the election of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister pursued by him in the High Court, Court of Appeal and House of Lords, (a) what costs have been incurred to date; (b) what is the estimate of any further costs not yet billed; (c) whether he intends to instruct his Department to cover any of the costs of this action; and, if so, how much. (AQO 56/02) Mr P Robinson: (a) To date the only payment was £4,560 by way of a Judicial Fee. (b) No other payment claims have yet been submitted and it is premature to provide estimates of costs at this point in time. (c) No instruction will be given to the Department. The decision that both the non-Departmental case initiated by me and the one in the name of the Minister should proceed as one case was taken by Mr Justice Kerr. This was supported by the Departmental Solicitors Office with whom all costs and apportionments will be agreed. No costs order was made in the case, consequently OFMDFM and the Secretary of State will have to cover their own costs which will be in excess of those for the Department. I understand that all arrangements were in line with previous practice for cases taken by other Departmental Ministers. No doubt the Member will be keen to investigate costs in other cases including those involving party colleagues. B173: Mr McCarthy asked the Minister for Regional Development if he will make a statement on the state of repair of the B173 from Kircubbin to Cloughey. (AQO 29/02) Mr P Robinson: The B173 is assessed under my Department’s Roads Service cyclic inspection system and remedial action to repair defects is taken as appropriate. My Department’s Roads Service is aware of the condition of the stretch of road through Rubane village, which has deteriorated over time resulting in the need to repair many potholes. My Department’s Water Service completed a scheme at this location during November/ December 2001 and it would clearly not have been the best use of taxpayer’s money to proceed with a resurfacing scheme in the knowledge that the road would be subject to excavations during this contract. I am pleased to inform you that following discussions between Roads and Water Service in relation to the final reinstatement of the Water Service track, Roads Service will be proceeding with a resurfacing scheme this month. There are no current plans to resurface other stretches of the B173 between Kircubbin and Cloughey, although they continue to be inspected and repaired regularly by Roads Service. Dual Carriageway: Rev Robert Coulter asked the Minister for Regional Development to make a statement on the anticipated completion date for the dual carriageway under the Larne Road roundabout at Ballymena. (AQO 55/02) Mr P Robinson: Within the context of the Regional Transportation Strategy approved by the Assembly in July, my Department’s Roads Service is preparing a Forward Planning Schedule of major road schemes which it is expected could be started within the 10-year period of the Regional Transportation Strategy. Roads Service is currently carrying out scheme appraisals on a number of schemes for possible inclusion in the Schedule. I can confirm that a dual carriageway under the Larne Road roundabout at Ballymena is among the schemes currently being appraised. Successful schemes would have to be taken through the statutory procedures of Environmental Assessment, Planning Approval and Land Acquisition but the most critical factor in delivering the Regional Transportation Strategy will be the availability of additional funds for such schemes. Housing Indicator Mr Armstrong asked the Minister for Regional Development if he has assessed the likely impact of Housing Indicator Numbers (obtained through the Regional Development Strategy) on development in areas of NI where growth has been historically high. (AQO 61/02) Mr P Robinson: The District Housing Growth Indicators in the Regional Development Strategy were set as a result of a robust assessment. That assessment included information on new household formation, vacancy rates in the housing stock, replacement of stock loss due to demolitions, abandonment and changes of use and conversions. In addition, the assessment of regional housing need, relied on the most recently published Government Actuary population projections for the period 1998-2015. The district housing figures which emerged in the final Regional Development Strategy were agreed by the Assembly on 20 September 2001. I recognise that problems may arise from time to time as a result of the over-provision or under-provision of housing and, accordingly, there is need for continuous monitoring of figures in the RDS. In the light of concerns expressed about the adequacy of the projections in a small number of areas, my officials have asked the Planning Service for a detailed assessment in each area where development plans are being prepared. That assessment will cover the number of dwellings built since 1998, current planning applications, extant planning permissions, land availability, urban capacity, and the headroom to accommodate the residual housing figure. On the basis of the assessment I receive from the Department of the Environment and information from the 2001 Census, the first stage tranche of material will be released on 30th September 2002, I will consider whether there is clear evidence to adjust the Housing Growth Indicators in any specific areas. Dual Carriageway: Mr Paisley Jnr asked the Minister for Regional Development to outline the proposed starting date for a dual carriageway from Ballymena to Ballymoney. (AQO 2/02) Mr P Robinson: The Regional Transportation Strategy approved by the Assembly in July identified the strategic transportation priorities and necessary investment needed to provide a modern, sustainable and safe transportation system over the next 10 years. My Department’s Roads Service is currently preparing a Forward Planning Schedule of major road schemes, which could be started within that 10-year period. Roads Service is currently carrying out scheme appraisals on a number of schemes for possible inclusion in the Schedule. I can confirm that extending the A26 dual carriageway north as far as the Ballycastle Fork is among the schemes currently being appraised. Successful schemes would have to be taken through the statutory procedures of Environmental Assessment, Planning Approval and Land Acquisition but the most critical factor in delivering the Regional Transportation Strategy will be the availability of additional funds for such schemes. Culmore Treatment Mrs Courtney asked the Minister for Regional Development to confirm reports that £18 million has been set aside by the Water Service to upgrade Culmore Treatment Works in the Derry City Council area and to give a date as to when work is scheduled to start. (AQO 68/02) Mr P Robinson: Water Service needs to make substantial investment in the water and wastewater infrastructure to satisfy public health requirements, comply with European Union Directives, replace out of date infrastructure and meet the increasing demands for new development. Traditional public expenditure, even with borrowing opportunities such as the Reinvestment and Reform Initiative, are unlikely to meet Water Service’s requirements now and in the future. Consequently, Water Service has been actively investigating additional funding opportunities through Public Private Partnerships. Preliminary studies indicate that there are seven major wastewater treatment projects, totalling some £150 million, that are suitable for progression under a Public Private Partnership programme of work. 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