Environment

404 Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when the Dog Breeding Establishment Bill, which was passed by Dáil Éireann in July 2010, will be signed into law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34632/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 15 November 2011

404 Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when the Dog Breeding Establishment Bill, which was passed by Dáil Éireann in July 2010, will be signed into law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34632/11]

366 Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when he intends to sign legislation outlawing puppy farms. [33994/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 15 November 2011

366 Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when he intends to sign legislation outlawing puppy farms. [33994/11]

362 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the problems posed by puppy farms here; his plans to tackle these farms; if he proposes to introduce legislation in this area in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34074/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 15 November 2011

362 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the problems posed by puppy farms here; his plans to tackle these farms; if he proposes to introduce legislation in this area in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34074/11]

National Women's History Museum and Federal Facilities Consolidation and Efficiency Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2011

National Women's History Museum and Federal Facilities Consolidation and Efficiency Act of 2011 - National Women's History Museum Act of 2011 - Directs the Administrator of General Services (GSA) to convey, by quitclaim deed, to the National Women's History Museum, Inc. (the Museum) specified property (commonly known as the "Cotton Annex" site) in the District of Columbia, on terms which the Administrator deems appropriate. Requires the purchase price for the property to be: (1) its market value based on its highest and best use, as determined by an independent appraisal performed under the assumption that the property does not contain any hazardous substances, waste, or pollutants requiring a response under applicable environmental laws; and (2) paid into the Federal Buildings Fund. Requires the property to be dedicated for use as a site for a national women's history museum for a 99-year period. Prohibits using federal funds to purchase the property or design and construct any facility on such property. Federal Trade Commission and National Gallery of Art Facility Consolidation, Savings, and Efficiency Act of 2011 - Requires the Administrator, not later than December 31, 2012, to transfer administrative jurisdiction, custody, and control of the building located at 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, in Washington, DC, to the National Gallery of Art and to name such building as the North Building of the National Gallery of Art. Requires the National Gallery of Art to pay the costs of remodeling, renovating, or reconstructing such building. Prohibits the use of appropriated funds for the initial costs of such activities. Requires the Administrator to relocate the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) employees and operations housed in such building to specified space in the leased building known as the Constitution Center located at 400 7th Street, SW, in Washington, DC. Directs the Administrator and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to execute an occupancy agreement to assign or sublease such space.

New Alternative Transportation to Give Americans Solutions Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2011

New Alternative Transportation to Give Americans Solutions Act of 2011 - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow an extension through 2016 of the tax credit for alternative fuel motor vehicles powered by compressed or liquefied natural gas and make Indian tribal governments eligible for such credit, (2) allow an offset against regular and alternative minimum tax (AMT) liabilities of tax credits for such vehicles and allow the transferability of such credits, (3) increase the tax credit for the purchase of such vehicles, (4) allow a new business-related tax credit for the production of such vehicles, and (5) extend through 2016 the tax credit for alternative fuel vehicle refueling property expenditures for property servicing such vehicles and allow an increased tax credit rate for such property. Requires the Secretary of Energy (DOE) to provide funding to improve the performance and efficiency and integration of natural gas-powered motor vehicles and heavy-duty on-road vehicles.  Authorizes the Secretary to make grants  to manufacturers of light and heavy duty natural gas vehicles for the development of engines that reduce emissions, improve performance and efficiency, and lower cost. Expresses the sense of Congress the the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) should further streamline the process for certification of natural gas vehicle retrofit kits to promote energy security while still fulfilling the mission of the Clean Air Act. Amends the Energy Policy Act of 1992 to allocate funds for vehicles that are repowered or converted to operate on an alternative fuel. Allocates a federal share for the cost of acquiring vehicle-related equipment or facilities for complying with the Clean Air Act.  Directs the Secretary of Transportation to establish and administer a program to encourage the development of natural gas fueling infrastructure to be used by transit agencies. Replaces excise tax rates for liquefied natural gas and compressed natural gas with the sum of the Highway Trust Fund and the Natural Gas Transportation Incentives financing rates.

To prohibit the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency from granting a waiver under section 211(f)(4) of the Clean Air Act for any fuel or fuel additive that will reduce fuel efficiency or cause or contribute to engine damage.

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2011

Amends the Clean Air Act to prohibit the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from granting a waiver from prohibitions concerning new fuels and additives in light duty motor vehicles for any fuel or fuel additive that will: (1) reduce the fuel efficiency of the vehicle or engine, or (2) cause or contribute to any damage to the vehicle engine.

Sustainable States Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2011

Sustainable States Act of 2011 - Establishes a program under which the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shall provide no more than 20 grants to sustainable state consortia (partnerships consisting of local governments, states, public universities, and other municipal organizations, businesses, or nonprofit organizations) to establish and carry out municipal sustainability certification programs. Requires each grant to have a three year term. Defines "municipal sustainability certification program" as a program that: (1) determines a set of state-specific benchmarks for use in evaluating sustainability, and (2) certifies a municipality as sustainable based on documented achievement of those benchmarks. Directs the Administrator to: (1) establish flexible guidelines that reflect regional differences for use by such consortia in establishing such programs; (2) annually compile data from such consortia and report on municipal actions undertaken to obtain municipal sustainability certification; (3) encourage such consortia to establish certification standards beyond the guidelines established by the Administrator, adapt the administration of the program to meet regional or local needs, and plan for public-private partnership agreements that will sustain the operation of the certification program of a state beyond the term of the grant; and (4) establish a website that permits interactive dialogue and collaboration among community leaders and citizens engaged in municipal sustainability certification. Establishes a program under which the Administrator shall award no more than 20 project grants to municipalities certified by sustainable state consortia to extend the leadership of the municipalities in meeting sustainability challenges.

Protecting Neighborhoods from Oil Pollution Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 15 November 2011

Protecting Neighborhoods from Oil Pollution Act of 2011 - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly known as the Clean Water Act) to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue final regulations requiring an owner or operator to permanently close any oil storage or processing facility that: (1) is located within one mile of 100 or more residential units if two or more discharges of more than 40 gallons of oil occur at such facility within any 10-year period, or (2) is the source of groundwater contamination affecting 100 or more residential units. Requires such closures to be completed by specified deadlines. Requires such regulations to define "permanently close" to require: (1) all liquid and sludge to be removed from each container and connecting line associated with such facilities; (2) all such connecting lines and piping to be disconnected from such containers and blanked off, all valves (except for ventilation valves) to be closed and locked, and conspicuous signs to be posted on each container stating that it is a permanently closed container and noting the date of closure; and (3) other applicable laws to be followed with respect to clean up and remediation of any other contamination at, or originating from, such facilities. Prohibits the Administrator from including in such regulations exemptions to any of the requirements of this Act for discharges resulting from an act of God, an act of war, or U.S. negligence. Authorizes the Administrator to waive the requirement for closure of such facilities or grant an extension of the closure deadline if the Administrator determines that such owners or operators have taken or are taking all practicable steps to remediate the condition requiring closure. Requires such conditions requiring closure to be considered to be: (1) a substantial threat to the public health or welfare of the United States for the purposes of federal removal authority and civil enforcement, or (2) an imminent and substantial endangerment to the health of persons or to the welfare of persons for the purposes of emergency powers.

PIONEERS Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2011

Protecting Investment in Oil Shale the Next Generation of Environmental, Energy, and Resource Security Act or PIONEERS Act - Deems the final regulations regarding oil shale management published by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) on November 18, 2008, to satisfy all legal and procedural requirements under any law, including the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, the Endangered Species Act of 1973, the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, and the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to implement those regulations, including the oil shale leasing program they authorize, without any other administrative action necessary. Deems the November 17, 2008, U.S. Bureau of Land Management Approved Resource Management Plan Amendments/Record of Decision for Oil Shale and Tar Sands Resources to Address Land Use Allocations in Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming and Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement also to satisfy all legal and procedural requirements under any law. Directs the Secretary to implement the oil shale leasing program in those areas covered by the resource management plans amended by such amendments, and covered by such record of decision, without any other administrative action necessary. Directs the Secretary to hold a lease sale, within 180 days after enactment of this Act, that offers an additional 10 parcels for lease for research, development, and demonstration of oil shale resources under the terms offered in the solicitation of bids for such leases published on January 15, 2009. Requires the Secretary, by January 1, 2016, to hold at least 5 separate commercial lease sales, in multiple lease blocs, in areas of at least 25,000 acres, which: (1) have been nominated through public comment, and (2) are considered to have the most potential for oil shale development. Authorizes the Secretary to reduce temporarily any royalties, fees, rentals, bonus, or other payments for leases of federal lands for oil shale resources development and production as necessary to incentivize and encourage development of such resources, if the Secretary determines that such payments, otherwise authorized by law, are hindering production of such resources.

To establish in the Department of the Interior an Under Secretary for Energy, Lands, and Minerals and a Bureau of Ocean Energy, an Ocean Energy Safety Service, and an Office of Natural Resources Revenue, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2011

Establishes in the Department of the Interior: (1) an Under Secretary for Energy, Lands, and Minerals; (2) an Assistant Secretary of Ocean Energy and Safety; (3) an Assistant Secretary of Land and Minerals Management; (4) a Bureau of Ocean Energy (Bureau), with a comprehensive program of offshore mineral and renewable energy resources management; (5) an Ocean Energy Safety Service, administering safety and environmental enforcement activities related to offshore mineral and renewable energy resources on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS); and (6) an Office of Natural Resources Revenue (Office), with all functions, powers, and duties previously assigned to the Minerals Management Service regarding offshore royalty and revenue management. Directs the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) establish and maintain a National Offshore Energy Health and Safety Academy as an agency of the Ocean Energy Safety Service, and (2) develop and maintain adequate programs to provide for the continuing education of certain Department of the Interior personnel. Requires the Secretary to: (1) certify annually that all Department personnel having regular, direct official contact with government contractors, or conducting investigations, issuing permits, or overseeing energy programs, comply fully with federal employee ethics laws and regulations; and (3) conduct a random drug testing program of such personnel. Abolishes the Minerals Management Service. Directs the Secretary to establish an Outer Continental Shelf Energy Safety Advisory Board.

Alaskan Energy for American Jobs Act

United States · United States Congress · 14 November 2011

Alaskan Energy for American Jobs Act - Directs the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Director of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), to implement a competitive leasing program for the exploration, development, and production of the oil and gas resources on the Coastal Plain of Alaska. Amends the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 to repeal the prohibition against leasing or other development leading to production of oil and gas from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). Deems any oil and gas leasing programs and activities authorized by this Act to be in compliance with the purposes of ANWR, so that no further findings or decisions are required to implement this determination. Authorizes the Secretary to designate up to 45,000 acres of the Coastal Plain as a Special Area, after consultation with the state of Alaska, the city of Kaktovik, and the North Slope Borough. Permits directional drilling in the Special Area. States that the Secretary's sole authority to close lands within the Coastal Plain to oil and gas leasing, exploration, development, and production is that set forth in this Act. Sets forth a "no significant adverse effect" standard to govern Coastal Plain activities. Prescribes procedures governing Coastal Plain lease sales and lease sale bids, as well as lease terms and conditions, including: (1) site-specific assessment and mitigation, (2) regulations to protect Coastal Plain fish and wildlife resources, subsistence users, and the environment, (3) compliance with environmental laws, (4) design safety and construction standards for pipelines and access and service roads, (5) reclamation and rehabilitation requirements, (6) restrictions affecting transportation modes, sand and gravel extraction, use of explosives, and hazardous and toxic waste disposal. Instructs the Secretary to develop a plan facility consolidation plan for the Coastal Plain. Prescribes guidelines for expedited judicial review of complaints. Requires deposit in the Treasury of 50% of all bonus, rental, and royalty revenues from federal oil and gas leasing and operations authorized under this Act. Directs the Secretary to: (1) issue rights-of-way and easements across the Coastal Plain for the transportation of oil and gas produced under leases under this Act, (2) convey to the Kaktovik Inupiat Corporation the surface estate of specified lands, and (3) convey to the Arctic Slope Regional Corporation a certain subsurface estate to which it is entitled pursuant to a specified agreement.

Ontwerpbesluit tot herstel van gebreken van wetstechnische en inhoudelijk ondergeschikte aard in enkele besluiten op de beleidsterreinen van het Ministerie van Infrastructuur en Milieu

Netherlands · House of Representatives · 11 November 2011

Ontwerpbesluit tot herstel van gebreken van wetstechnische en inhoudelijk ondergeschikte aard in enkele besluiten op de beleidsterreinen van het Ministerie van Infrastructuur en Milieu

Organisatie ontwikkeling ministerie van Infrastructuur en Milieu

Netherlands · House of Representatives · 11 November 2011

Organisatie ontwikkeling ministerie van Infrastructuur en Milieu

169 Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he is continuing to lobby for a slurry spreading deadline extension; the steps he has taken to extend the slurry spreading deadline; and if not, the reasons he has ceased or scaled down his requests to the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government for an extension. [33937/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

169 Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he is continuing to lobby for a slurry spreading deadline extension; the steps he has taken to extend the slurry spreading deadline; and if not, the reasons he has ceased or scaled down his requests to the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government for an extension. [33937/11]

156 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive their agri-environment options scheme payment. [33729/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

156 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive their agri-environment options scheme payment. [33729/11]

139 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of registered cars in each category based on CO 2 emissions; and the number of cars registered in each category based on engine size. [33918/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

139 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of registered cars in each category based on CO 2 emissions; and the number of cars registered in each category based on engine size. [33918/11]

138 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the steps he is taking to help the Priory Hall residents, Dublin, who need to be properly housed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33903/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

138 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the steps he is taking to help the Priory Hall residents, Dublin, who need to be properly housed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33903/11]

137 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide emergency funds to Dublin City Council to ensure that the remedial works needed at the Priory Hall apartment complex take place straight away; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33902/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

137 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide emergency funds to Dublin City Council to ensure that the remedial works needed at the Priory Hall apartment complex take place straight away; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33902/11]

136 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding affordable housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33897/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

136 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding affordable housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33897/11]

135 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if residents living in multi-unit developments will be exempt from the household charge (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33895/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

135 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if residents living in multi-unit developments will be exempt from the household charge (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33895/11]

133 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he has changed his views regarding the harmful effects on citizens of RF-MW radiation from mobile technology; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33888/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

133 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he has changed his views regarding the harmful effects on citizens of RF-MW radiation from mobile technology; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33888/11]

132 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if there is grant aid for an organisation (details supplied) which wishes to produce a community newsletter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33878/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

132 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if there is grant aid for an organisation (details supplied) which wishes to produce a community newsletter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33878/11]

134 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33893/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

134 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33893/11]

131 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied) regarding architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33874/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

131 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied) regarding architects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33874/11]

130 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if an actuarial assessment has been or is proposed to be carried out in respect of the 4.5% annual increase on the loan, known as rent section, aspect of the shared ownership scheme held by each local authority, as to the effect of this increase in regard to the value of the scheme and to the overall total cost of the loan to the applicant; if not, if he will have such an evaluation completed to determine if the scheme is a benefit to such applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33845/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

130 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if an actuarial assessment has been or is proposed to be carried out in respect of the 4.5% annual increase on the loan, known as rent section, aspect of the shared ownership scheme held by each local authority, as to the effect of this increase in regard to the value of the scheme and to the overall total cost of the loan to the applicant; if not, if he will have such an evaluation completed to determine if the scheme is a benefit to such applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33845/11]

129 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding the forthcoming changes to local household waste collection services in the Dublin city area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33828/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

129 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding the forthcoming changes to local household waste collection services in the Dublin city area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33828/11]

128 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the non-principal private residence charge must be paid by persons living outside the State who own a property here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33827/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

128 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the non-principal private residence charge must be paid by persons living outside the State who own a property here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33827/11]

127 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied) regarding pyrite; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33741/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

127 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied) regarding pyrite; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33741/11]

126 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied) regarding taxes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33739/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

126 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied) regarding taxes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33739/11]

11 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views that the high level of militarisation in north-eastern Sri Lanka is directly linked to most of the other problems prevalent in the area such as the breakdown in the social fabric, state brutality including sexual assault, land grabs and occupation and that it is completely unacceptable that more than two years since the conclusion of the war, the Government of Sri Lanka has failed to facilitate the proper transition of these areas from a situation of conflict to a normal environment. [33718/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 10 November 2011

11 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views that the high level of militarisation in north-eastern Sri Lanka is directly linked to most of the other problems prevalent in the area such as the breakdown in the social fabric, state brutality including sexual assault, land grabs and occupation and that it is completely unacceptable that more than two years since the conclusion of the war, the Government of Sri Lanka has failed to facilitate the proper transition of these areas from a situation of conflict to a normal environment. [33718/11]

Klamath Basin Economic Restoration Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 10 November 2011

Klamath Basin Economic Restoration Act of 2011 - Approves the "Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement for the Sustainability of Public and Trust Resources and Affected Communities," except to the extent such Agreement conflicts with this Act. Requires the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Commerce, and the Secretary of Agriculture (USDA) to: (1) sign and implement such Agreement; (2) implement amendments to such Agreement approved by the signatories after this Act's enactment, unless one of the Secretaries determines that the amendment is inconsistent with this Act or other law; and (3) carry out each Secretary's responsibilities under such Agreement. Provides that the signature by the Secretaries of such Agreement does not constitute a major federal action under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). Establishes in the Treasury: (1) the On-Project Plan and Power for Water Management Fund, (2) the Water Use Retirement and Off-Project Reliance Fund, and (3) the Klamath Drought Fund. Lists the purposes of the Klamath Reclamation Project to be irrigation, reclamation, flood control, municipal, industrial, power, national wildlife refuge, and fish and wildlife, but provides that the purposes of such project as in existence prior to this Act's enactment shall continue for purposes of the determination of water rights in Oregon Klamath Basin Adjudication, until Appendix E-1 to the Restoration Agreement has been filed in the Oregon Klamath Basin Adjudication. Provides for the disposition of net revenues from the leasing of refuge land within the Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge and the Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge. Sets forth provisions concerning the release of specified water rights claims against the United States by the Klamath Tribe, the Karuk Tribe, and the Yurok Tribe. Approves the Klamath Hydroelectric Settlement Agreement, except to the extent such Settlement conflicts with this Act. Requires the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Commerce, and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to implement such Settlement and any amendments to it, unless one of the Secretaries determines that the amendment is inconsistent with this Act. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to determine whether to proceed with the removal of the following hydropower developments licensed to PacifiCorp under the Federal Power Act: Iron Gate Development, Copco 1 Development, Copco 2 Development, and J.C. Boyle Development. Authorizes the Secretary to proceed with such removal if it: (1) will advance restoration of the salmonid fisheries of the Klamath Basin, and (2) is in the public interest. Sets forth provisions concerning the designation of the Dam Removal Entity and facilities removal. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to accept the transfer of title in the Keno Development to the United States in accordance with such Settlement. Requires such development, on its transfer, to: (1) become part of the Klamath Reclamation Project, and (2) be operated and maintained in accordance with reclamation law. Terminates FERC jurisdiction over such development on such transfer. Sets forth provisions concerning liability protection for PacifiCorp from harm or damage resulting from facility removal or operation. Requires FERC to issue annual licenses authorizing PacifiCorp to continue to operate such hydropower developments. Sets forth provisions concerning certain pending license applications.

Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 10 November 2011

Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act of 2011 - Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to extend: (1) the conservation reserve and related programs, (2) the pilot program for enrollment of wetland and buffer acreage in the conservation reserve program, (3) the environmental quality incentives program, (4) activities to address air quality concerns from agricultural operations, and (5) the conservation access program. Permits conservation reserve contract modification to facilitate transfers from retiring owners to limited resource farmers or ranchers. Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to: (1) reduce the number of operating years required for a beginning farmer or rancher to qualify for a direct real estate loan, (2) authorize micro loans for beginning farmers or ranchers who are between 19 and 35 years old, (3) extend real estate and operating loan authority at increased levels, (4) revise private source transition provisions, (5) make the direct operating loan set-aside for beginning farmers and ranchers permanent, (6) permit loans and grants for entrepreneurial farm and farm-related enterprises, and (7) extend the beginning farmer and rancher individual development accounts pilot program. Amends the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000 to extend the value-added agricultural product market development grant program. Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to extend the beginning farmer and rancher development program. Provides assistance for agricultural rehabilitation and vocational training for veterans. Amends the Competitive, Special, and Facilities Research Grant Act to extend the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative. Provides priority assistance for new farming opportunities, including young, beginning, socially disadvantaged, and immigrant issues, as well as farm entry, transition, and transfer issues. Amends the Federal Crop Insurance Act to express the sense of Congress that the Department of Agriculture (USDA) should remove barriers and ensure effective access to crop and revenue insurance by beginning farmers and ranchers. Extends authority for reimbursement of research, development, and maintenance costs. Provides for risk management programs targeted at beginning, socially disadvantaged, transitioning, or legal immigrant farmers and ranchers. Amends the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 to direct the Small Farms and Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Group (within the Office of Advocacy and Outreach) to designate a state small and beginning farmer and rancher coordinator from among the state office employees of the Farm Service Agency, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Risk Management Agency, the Rural Business-Cooperative Service, and the Rural Utilities Service. Amends the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 to establish in USDA the position of Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison.

Klamath Basin Economic Restoration Act of 2011

United States · United States Congress · 10 November 2011

Klamath Basin Economic Restoration Act of 2011 - Approves the "Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement for the Sustainability of Public and Trust Resources and Affected Communities," except to the extent such Agreement conflicts with this Act. Requires the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Commerce, and the Secretary of Agriculture (USDA) to: (1) sign and implement such Agreement; (2) implement amendments to such Agreement approved by the signatories after this Act's enactment, unless one of the Secretaries determines that the amendment is inconsistent with this Act or other law; and (3) carry out each Secretary's responsibilities under such Agreement. Provides that the signature by the Secretaries of such Agreement does not constitute a major federal action under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). Establishes in the Treasury: (1) the On-Project Plan and Power for Water Management Fund, (2) the Water Use Retirement and Off-Project Reliance Fund, and (3) the Klamath Drought Fund. Lists the purposes of the Klamath Reclamation Project to be irrigation, reclamation, flood control, municipal, industrial, power, national wildlife refuge, and fish and wildlife, but provides that the purposes of such project as in existence prior to this Act's enactment shall continue for purposes of the determination of water rights in Oregon Klamath Basin Adjudication, until Appendix E-1 to the Restoration Agreement has been filed in the Oregon Klamath Basin Adjudication. Provides for the disposition of net revenues from the leasing of refuge land within the Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge and the Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge. Sets forth provisions concerning the release of specified water rights claims against the United States by the Klamath Tribe, the Karuk Tribe, and the Yurok Tribe. Approves the Klamath Hydroelectric Settlement Agreement, except to the extent such Settlement conflicts with this Act. Requires the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Commerce, and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to implement such Settlement and any amendments to it, unless one of the Secretaries determines that the amendment is inconsistent with this Act. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to determine whether to proceed with the removal of the following hydropower developments licensed to PacifiCorp under the Federal Power Act: Iron Gate Development, Copco 1 Development, Copco 2 Development, and J.C. Boyle Development. Authorizes the Secretary to proceed with such removal if it: (1) will advance restoration of the salmonid fisheries of the Klamath Basin, and (2) is in the public interest. Sets forth provisions concerning the designation of the Dam Removal Entity and facilities removal. Requires the Secretary of the Interior to accept the transfer of title in the Keno Development to the United States in accordance with such Settlement. Requires such development, on its transfer, to: (1) become part of the Klamath Reclamation Project, and (2) be operated and maintained in accordance with reclamation law. Terminates FERC jurisdiction over such development on such transfer. Sets forth provisions concerning liability protection for PacifiCorp from harm or damage resulting from facility removal or operation. Requires FERC to issue annual licenses authorizing PacifiCorp to continue to operate such hydropower developments. Sets forth provisions concerning certain pending license applications.

Judgment of the Court (Fourth Chamber) of 10 November 2011.#Criminal proceedings against QB.#Reference for a preliminary ruling: Amtsgericht Bruchsal - Germany.#Protection of the environment – Regulations (EC) Nos 1013/2006 and 1418/2007 – Control of shipments of waste – Prohibition on the shipment of spent catalysts to Lebanon.#Case C-405/10.

European Union · Court of Justice of the European Union · 10 November 2011

139 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to ensure the interest rate cut is passed on to local authority mortgage holders. [33688/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

139 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to ensure the interest rate cut is passed on to local authority mortgage holders. [33688/11]

138 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide details about the two mortgage-to-rent schemes; when they will be launched; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33671/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

138 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide details about the two mortgage-to-rent schemes; when they will be launched; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33671/11]

137 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland has completed its independent assessment of the possible impacts for Ireland from the UK’s nuclear building programme; when he expects this report to be completed; and when it will be published. [33667/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

137 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland has completed its independent assessment of the possible impacts for Ireland from the UK’s nuclear building programme; when he expects this report to be completed; and when it will be published. [33667/11]

136 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the level of funding that was provided to the Simon Community and other organisations for emergency services for the homeless in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and to date in 2011; and the amount that will be provided in 2012. [33666/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

136 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the level of funding that was provided to the Simon Community and other organisations for emergency services for the homeless in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and to date in 2011; and the amount that will be provided in 2012. [33666/11]

134 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding his plans to introduce a national building inspectorate service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33658/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

134 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding his plans to introduce a national building inspectorate service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33658/11]

133 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the specific plans in place for the inner city of Dublin in the absence of any partnership structure or local development company. [33655/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

133 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the specific plans in place for the inner city of Dublin in the absence of any partnership structure or local development company. [33655/11]

132 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he intends introducing grant aid to assist those who are required to upgrade their waste water systems under the Water Services (Amendment) Bill 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33649/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

132 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he intends introducing grant aid to assist those who are required to upgrade their waste water systems under the Water Services (Amendment) Bill 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33649/11]

131 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the gross estimated cost per annum of providing for all of the services, to implement the Water Services (Amendment) Bill 2011; the sources of funding to implement the Bill broken down between registration fees, inspection charge, other payments by owners of waste water systems, other local authority contribution and Exchequer contribution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33648/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

131 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the gross estimated cost per annum of providing for all of the services, to implement the Water Services (Amendment) Bill 2011; the sources of funding to implement the Bill broken down between registration fees, inspection charge, other payments by owners of waste water systems, other local authority contribution and Exchequer contribution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33648/11]

130 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the financial resources such as humanitarian aid, rebuilding funds and refurbishment funds being made available to residents and businesses flooded in the Dublin region in the past week separate to supplementary welfare allowances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33596/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

130 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the financial resources such as humanitarian aid, rebuilding funds and refurbishment funds being made available to residents and businesses flooded in the Dublin region in the past week separate to supplementary welfare allowances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33596/11]

129 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to reduce the voting age to 17 or 16 years of age in advance of the 2014 local elections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33578/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

129 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to reduce the voting age to 17 or 16 years of age in advance of the 2014 local elections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33578/11]

128 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to revise the local authority boundaries in view of the 2011 census, and also in view of his announcement to amalgamate a number of local authorities across the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33577/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

128 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to revise the local authority boundaries in view of the 2011 census, and also in view of his announcement to amalgamate a number of local authorities across the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33577/11]

127 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when a Leader payment due to an organisation (details supplied) will be released. [33571/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

127 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when a Leader payment due to an organisation (details supplied) will be released. [33571/11]

126 Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide full details of restructuring proposals for the waste management business and the replacement of side-by-side competition with tendering for the entire market, called franchise bidding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33565/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

126 Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide full details of restructuring proposals for the waste management business and the replacement of side-by-side competition with tendering for the entire market, called franchise bidding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33565/11]

125 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide a breakdown of the amount of funding made available to Ballymun Regeneration Limited for the refurbishment of Silloge 4; and the total cost per unit for the 122 local authority houses, including the ground works and underground services at Silloge 4. [33517/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

125 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide a breakdown of the amount of funding made available to Ballymun Regeneration Limited for the refurbishment of Silloge 4; and the total cost per unit for the 122 local authority houses, including the ground works and underground services at Silloge 4. [33517/11]

124 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will make money available to local authorities for the insulation of senior citizens housing complexes owned by local authorities. [33516/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

124 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will make money available to local authorities for the insulation of senior citizens housing complexes owned by local authorities. [33516/11]

122 Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the funding he has provided for the upgrade of the waste water treatment plant at Ballyhale, County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33505/11]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 9 November 2011

122 Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the funding he has provided for the upgrade of the waste water treatment plant at Ballyhale, County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33505/11]