Environment

94 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will reform the current waste collection system following the conclusions of the Competition Authority that it is not working well for consumers nationally; if so, when he intends to reform the system; if such a reform will include a national waiver scheme; the steps he intends to take to increase competition within the market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30546/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 25 October 2005

94 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will reform the current waste collection system following the conclusions of the Competition Authority that it is not working well for consumers nationally; if so, when he intends to reform the system; if such a reform will include a national waiver scheme; the steps he intends to take to increase competition within the market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30546/05]

93 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has met electrical and electronic producers and retailers with a view to discussing the implementation of an extra charge on electrical and electronic products that consumers are paying since the implementation of the WEEE Directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30675/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 25 October 2005

93 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has met electrical and electronic producers and retailers with a view to discussing the implementation of an extra charge on electrical and electronic products that consumers are paying since the implementation of the WEEE Directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30675/05]

Renewable Diesel Standard Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 25 October 2005

Renewable Diesel Standard Act of 2005 - Amends the Clean Air Act to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue regulations to ensure that the U.S. diesel fuel supply contains a specified annual volume (in gallons) of renewable fuel in 2008 through 2015. (Requires the percentage of renewable fuel in the U.S. diesel motor pool to be .006 for 2008 if the Administrator fails to promulgate such regulations.) Directs the Administrator to set the standard for renewable fuel content for 2016 and thereafter in consultation with the Secretaries of Agriculture and Energy, according to a specified formula, taking into consideration certain economic and environmental factors. Establishes a program of credits for diesel fuel producers who exceed the renewable fuel standards established by this Act. Authorizes the Administrator, upon the petition of one or more states, to waive renewable fuel content requirements for economic, environmental, or supply reasons.

Strengthening America's Security Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 25 October 2005

Strengthening America's Security Act of 2005 - Provides for: (1) increases in funding, personnel, and technology at the federal, state, and local level for immigration and border enforcement and visa security, document integrity, immigration fraud, and detention and removal of illegal aliens; and (2) specified border enforcement studies. Sets forth provisions for the release on bond of certain illegal aliens from noncontiguous countries. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to make expedited removal procedures available in all border patrol sectors on the southern U.S. border as soon as operationally possible. Authorizes grants to border-adjacent Indian tribes adversely affected by illegal immigration for law enforcement, health care, environmental restoration, and cultural preservation. Provides for increased detention and federal detention space. Prohibits detention that limits a person's reasonable access to legal counsel. Increases criminal penalties for alien smuggling, document fraud, gang violence, and drug trafficking. Makes an alien inadmissible who: (1) is a member of a street gang; or (2) refuses to comply with a lawful request for biometric data. Continues the institutional removal program (IRP). Establishes in: (1) the Department of Justice an Assistant Attorney General for Immigration Enforcement; and (2) the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Identity and Benefits Fraud Branch of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) the Fraud Appellate Review Board, which shall review determinations by the Forensic Document Laboratory determinations of fraudulent documents. Provides for federal reimbursement of state and local costs associated with processing illegal aliens through the criminal justice system.

To minimize harm to populations impacted by the release of environmental contaminants, hazardous materials or infectious materials in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita by providing for a Comprehensive Environmental Sampling and Toxicity Assessment Plan (CESTAP) to assess and monitor air, water, soil and human populations, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 25 October 2005

Gulf Coast Hurricane Emergency Environmental Protection Act of 2005 - Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to use Hurricane Katrina disaster relief funding for: (1) cleanup activities: (2) reconstruction and rehabilitation of drinking water supplies and wastewater treatment plants; and (3) addressing threats to human health or the environment due to Hurricane Katrina. Requires the Administrator to prioritize cleanup activities based upon risks posed to human health or the environment. Directs the Administrator, in coordination with the governors of affected states and relevant governmental agencies, to develop a Comprehensive Environmental Sampling and Toxicity Assessment Plan (CESTAP) to determine health and environmental hazards posed by exposure to contaminants, hazardous materials, or infectious materials released into the environment due to hurricanes and resultant flooding. Requires CESTAP to include comprehensive environmental testing, risk assessment, notification to the public and public health officials of environmental risks, cleanup provisions, training for responders and cleanup workers, and public health assessments and long-term monitoring of health risks from environmental contaminants released by Hurricane Katrina. Establishes an Independent Advisory and Review Board to assist the Administrator in carrying out this Act. Habitability of Residential Homes, Schools, and Commercial Buildings Affected by Hurricane Katrina Act of 2005 - Directs the Administrator to: (1) establish a grant program for abatement and inspection activities for residences, commercial buildings, and schools affected by Hurricane Katrina; (2) issues guidelines for mold and mold spore limits in buildings; and (3) issue guidelines for contractor training and certification for mold remediation.

Sludge Disclosure Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 25 October 2005

Sludge Disclosure Act of 2005 - Amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act to require any person who sells or transfers sludge from a waste treatment plant for agricultural or related purposes to disclose to purchasers and the public information on the source and content of such sludge.

Chesapeake Bay Restoration Enhancement Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 25 October 2005

Chesapeake Bay Restoration Enhancement Act of 2005 - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to revise requirements for implementation and monitoring grants under the Chesapeake Bay Agreement and for reporting on federally-funded projects under such Agreement. Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to publish each year a tributary health report card to evaluate progress, with reference to a specified baseline, in achieving and maintaining nutrient and sediment reduction goals for each Chesapeake Bay tributary basin. Requires the states of Delaware, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia and the District of Columbia to submit information to the Administrator for each Chesapeake Bay tributary basin located in such jurisdictions relating to nutrient and sediment reduction. Prohibits the Administrator from making a grant to any state which fails to provide required information. Requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, in cooperation with specified federal agencies, to submit to Congress an interagency budget and other accountings for Chesapeake Bay restoration activities. Directs the Administrator to establish measurable goals for local governments for nutrient and sediment reduction in the Chesapeake Bay. Updates reporting deadlines for the study of the Chesapeake Bay Program. Authorizes appropriations through FY2011.

Communication of the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions - Implementing the Community Lisbon programme : A strategy for the simplification of the regulatory environment

European Union · European Commission · 25 October 2005

Proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a Framework for Community Action in the field of Marine Environmental Policy (Marine Strategy Directive) [SEC(2005) 1290]

European Union · European Commission · 24 October 2005

Communication from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament - Thematic Strategy on the Protection and Conservation of the Marine Environment {SEC(2005)1290}

European Union · European Commission · 24 October 2005

Ausstieg aus der klimaschädlichen Kohleverbrennung in Kraftwerken

Austria · National Council · 20 October 2005

Unselbständiger Entschließungsantrag der Abgeordneten Dr. Eva Glawischnig-Piesczek, Kolleginnen und Kollegen betreffend Ausstieg aus der klimaschädlichen Kohleverbrennung in Kraftwerken

COMPREHENSIVELY COMBATING METHAMPHETAMINES: IMPACTS ON HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT

United States · United States House of Representatives · 20 October 2005

200 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding a sewerage scheme (details supplied) in County Mayo; if he met with a group from that area to discuss this matter; if so, the persons who attended that meeting; if this scheme will be included in the polluter pay principle even though this scheme preceded the introduction of the new polluter pay principle guidelines; the reason this scheme is being included; the cost of the local contribution amount if the scheme will be included in the polluter pay principle; the reason this scheme is being included in this new polluter pay principle scheme as it was included in the small schemes initiative a number of years ago; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29997/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 20 October 2005

200 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding a sewerage scheme (details supplied) in County Mayo; if he met with a group from that area to discuss this matter; if so, the persons who attended that meeting; if this scheme will be included in the polluter pay principle even though this scheme preceded the introduction of the new polluter pay principle guidelines; the reason this scheme is being included; the cost of the local contribution amount if the scheme will be included in the polluter pay principle; the reason this scheme is being included in this new polluter pay principle scheme as it was included in the small schemes initiative a number of years ago; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29997/05]

199 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount and location of land and sites and the amount of moneys secured for the development of social and affordable housing in respect of permission given to private developers to build private accommodation in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council area by the county council under the terms of Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000-2002; and if a detailed breakdown of such acquisitions will be provided. [29944/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 20 October 2005

199 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount and location of land and sites and the amount of moneys secured for the development of social and affordable housing in respect of permission given to private developers to build private accommodation in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council area by the county council under the terms of Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000-2002; and if a detailed breakdown of such acquisitions will be provided. [29944/05]

198 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps that are being taken by his Department to help city and county councils to get builders to properly finish off housing estates to allow the local council to take them in hand. [29895/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 20 October 2005

198 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps that are being taken by his Department to help city and county councils to get builders to properly finish off housing estates to allow the local council to take them in hand. [29895/05]

197 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the plans he has to provide grant assistance in rural areas seeking to refurbish or replace old septic tanks that are not functioning properly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29894/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 20 October 2005

197 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the plans he has to provide grant assistance in rural areas seeking to refurbish or replace old septic tanks that are not functioning properly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29894/05]

196 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps he will take to provide grant assistance to house owners in group developments in rural areas to upgrade or replace septic tanks that are not functioning properly; his further plans to increase the group waste grants that will apply in such situations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29893/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 20 October 2005

196 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps he will take to provide grant assistance to house owners in group developments in rural areas to upgrade or replace septic tanks that are not functioning properly; his further plans to increase the group waste grants that will apply in such situations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29893/05]

Louisiana Recovery Corporation Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 October 2005

Louisiana Recovery Corporation Act - Establishes the Louisiana Recovery Corporation as an independent establishment in the executive branch whose primary mission shall be the economic stabilization and redevelopment of areas within Louisiana that were devastated or significantly distressed by Hurricane Katrina or Hurricane Rita. Directs the Corporation to establish the following divisions: (1) Environment and Land Use Management; (2) Economic Development; (3) Property Acquisition; (4) Property Management; (5) Property Disposition; and (6) Urban Homesteading and Community and Faith-Based Organizations. Sets forth Corporation authority with respect to: (1) property acquisition and mortgage debt assumption; (2) property resale, disposition, or improvement; and (3) limited eminent domain power. Terminates the Corporation ten years after enactment of this Act.

Krisenpräventionsplan gegen die Vogelgrippe

Austria · National Council · 19 October 2005

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Dr. Kurt Grünewald, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an die Bundesministerin für Gesundheit und Frauen betreffend Krisenpräventionsplan gegen die Vogelgrippe

Elektroaltgeräte (EAG) und Fragen zu deren Sammelsystemen

Austria · National Council · 19 October 2005

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Gerhard Steier, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend Elektroaltgeräte (EAG) und Fragen zu deren Sammelsystemen

Aufkommen Elektroaltgeräte (EAG)

Austria · National Council · 19 October 2005

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Gerhard Steier, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend Aufkommen Elektroaltgeräte (EAG)

weitere Vorgangsweise Österreichs zum Entsorgungsnachweis hinsichtlich der Endlagerung abgebrannter Brennelemente und radioaktiver Abfälle in der Schweiz

Austria · National Council · 19 October 2005

Antrag der Abgeordneten Karlheinz Kopf, Klaus Wittauer, Kolleginnen und Kollegen betreffend die weitere Vorgangsweise Österreichs zum Entsorgungsnachweis hinsichtlich der Endlagerung abgebrannter Brennelemente und radioaktiver Abfälle in der Schweiz

344 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the rural planning guidelines for one-off housing facilitate the granting of planning permission to a person from a town or village of under 1,500 population in the environs of that area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29835/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 19 October 2005

344 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the rural planning guidelines for one-off housing facilitate the granting of planning permission to a person from a town or village of under 1,500 population in the environs of that area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29835/05]

343 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will make a statement on safety measures at rock concerts. [29800/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 19 October 2005

343 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will make a statement on safety measures at rock concerts. [29800/05]

342 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason a person (details supplied) in County Galway has not received the top-up grant due to them on turbary purchased by Dúchas; the amount due and when payment will issue to this person. [29787/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 19 October 2005

342 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason a person (details supplied) in County Galway has not received the top-up grant due to them on turbary purchased by Dúchas; the amount due and when payment will issue to this person. [29787/05]

341 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if consideration has been given to the pre-budget submission 2006 launched by the Disability Federation of Ireland; the actions open to his Department in response to the submission in consultation with other Departments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29717/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 19 October 2005

341 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if consideration has been given to the pre-budget submission 2006 launched by the Disability Federation of Ireland; the actions open to his Department in response to the submission in consultation with other Departments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29717/05]

340 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will liaise with South Dublin County Council and offer additional assistance to allow the council take more effective and immediate action, in co-operation with the Garda Síochána, in respect of the anti-social behaviour problems in the council’s housing estates in Tallaght; his views on the need for action; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29650/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 19 October 2005

340 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will liaise with South Dublin County Council and offer additional assistance to allow the council take more effective and immediate action, in co-operation with the Garda Síochána, in respect of the anti-social behaviour problems in the council’s housing estates in Tallaght; his views on the need for action; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29650/05]

339 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will clarify, in the wake of comments made by the Tánaiste on the Order of Business in Dáil Éireann on 13 October 2005, whether a refundable deposit on beverage containers such as bottles and cans would be in breach of or affected by the packaging directive; the way in which this equates with refundable deposit systems being in operation in several other EU member states; his views on the success of bottle bills in several US states, and refundable schemes in the aforementioned EU countries and worldwide; the progress which has been made for introducing money-back bottles and cans or a related credit or voucher system following the raising of this matter by this Deputy in 2003 and the Minister of State’s indication that the matter would receive consideration. [29613/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 19 October 2005

339 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will clarify, in the wake of comments made by the Tánaiste on the Order of Business in Dáil Éireann on 13 October 2005, whether a refundable deposit on beverage containers such as bottles and cans would be in breach of or affected by the packaging directive; the way in which this equates with refundable deposit systems being in operation in several other EU member states; his views on the success of bottle bills in several US states, and refundable schemes in the aforementioned EU countries and worldwide; the progress which has been made for introducing money-back bottles and cans or a related credit or voucher system following the raising of this matter by this Deputy in 2003 and the Minister of State’s indication that the matter would receive consideration. [29613/05]

338 Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will make a statement on funding of the Maritime Museum, Haigh Terrace, Dún Laoghaire, and the current condition of the Mariner’s Church (details supplied). [29612/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 19 October 2005

338 Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will make a statement on funding of the Maritime Museum, Haigh Terrace, Dún Laoghaire, and the current condition of the Mariner’s Church (details supplied). [29612/05]

337 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if hares were coursed more than once, in breach of the regulations by a coursing club (details supplied) in County Mayo at its meeting on 30 and 31 October 2004; if sick hares which appeared to be suffering from malnutrition were coursed at the same meeting; if the club was sanctioned or penalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29611/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 19 October 2005

337 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if hares were coursed more than once, in breach of the regulations by a coursing club (details supplied) in County Mayo at its meeting on 30 and 31 October 2004; if sick hares which appeared to be suffering from malnutrition were coursed at the same meeting; if the club was sanctioned or penalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29611/05]

336 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the total amount paid to a consultancy company (details supplied) since 1997; the details of each of the contracts and services provided; the nature of controls applied in the procurement process; and if value for money has been achieved. [29582/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 19 October 2005

336 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the total amount paid to a consultancy company (details supplied) since 1997; the details of each of the contracts and services provided; the nature of controls applied in the procurement process; and if value for money has been achieved. [29582/05]

209 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Finance if he has taken action on foot of correspondence received from the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform of 4 April 2005 regarding the installation of mobile phone masts on a State property at Ardee Road, Rathmines, adjacent to St. Mary’s College; if he has issued a reply, other than a letter of acknowledgement, to this letter, in which he asked the Minister of State at the Department of Finance to ensure that the mast in question be removed immediately; his views on the Minister of Justice Equality and Law Reform’s opinion that the siting of the mast on the particular building contravenes clearly established criteria for the location of masts which have been accepted by the Office of Public Works, the local authorities and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. [29663/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 19 October 2005

209 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Finance if he has taken action on foot of correspondence received from the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform of 4 April 2005 regarding the installation of mobile phone masts on a State property at Ardee Road, Rathmines, adjacent to St. Mary’s College; if he has issued a reply, other than a letter of acknowledgement, to this letter, in which he asked the Minister of State at the Department of Finance to ensure that the mast in question be removed immediately; his views on the Minister of Justice Equality and Law Reform’s opinion that the siting of the mast on the particular building contravenes clearly established criteria for the location of masts which have been accepted by the Office of Public Works, the local authorities and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. [29663/05]

Arctic Coastal Plain Domestic Energy Security Act of 2005

United States · United States Congress · 19 October 2005

Arctic Coastal Plain Domestic Energy Security Act of 2005 - Declares that Congress authorizes the leasing, development, production, and economically feasible transportation of oil and gas in and from the Coastal Plain. Instructs the Secretary of the Interior to establish and implement a competitive oil and gas leasing program that will result in an environmentally sound program for the exploration, development, and production of the oil and gas resources of the Coastal Plain, while taking into consideration the interests and concerns of residents of the Coastal Plain, which is the homeland of the Kaktovikmiut Inupiat. Amends the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act to repeal the prohibition against production of oil and gas from the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), including any leasing or development leading to such production. States that, for purposes of the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, the Coastal Plain oil and gas leasing program is compatible with the purposes for which ANWR was established, and that no further findings or decisions are required to implement this determination. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) designate a maximum total of Coastal Plain acreage as "Special Areas"; (2) permit oil and gas exploration leasing in such Areas (but prohibit surface occupancy); and (3) permit horizontal drilling technology from lease sites located outside the Special Areas. Prohibits the Secretary from closing land within the Coastal Plain to oil and gas leasing, exploration, development, or production, except in accordance with this Act. Prescribes procedures for: (1) lease sales; (2) grants of leases; (3) lease terms and conditions; (4) Coastal Plain environmental protection; (5) expedited judicial review; and (6) federal and state distribution of revenues. Shields from Title XI of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act the rights-of-way and easements issued by the Secretary for oil and gas transportation across the Coastal Plain. Directs the Secretary to convey: (1) the surface estate of specified lands to the Kaktovik Inupiat Corporation; and (2) the remaining subsurface estate of specified lands to the Arctic Slope Regional Corporation. Establishes the Coastal Plain Local Government Impact Aid Assistance Fund to provide financial assistance to specified entities that are directly impacted by oil and gas production and exploration on the Coastal Plain, as determined by the Secretary.

A bill to authorize the conduct of small projects for the rehabilitation or removal of dams.

United States · United States Congress · 19 October 2005

Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to carry out a small dam removal or rehabilitation project, including one relating to a privately-owned dam that does not generate hydropower, upon determining that the project will enhance public safety or improve the quality of the environment, or is in the public interest. Directs a non-federal interest to provide 35% of removal or remediation costs. Permits construction to be commenced only after a non-federal interest has entered into a binding agreement with the Secretary to pay: (1) the non-federal share of construction costs; and (2) 100% of any operation and maintenance costs. Limits to $5 million in federal funds the amount that may be allotted for a project at any single location.

824 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water supply capacity in the greater Dublin area at present (details supplied); the additional water supply schemes which are either under construction, at the planning stages, or awaiting approval from his Department; if the supply capacity in the area is deemed to be sufficient to cater for the current population and for the projected increases in population over the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29542/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

824 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water supply capacity in the greater Dublin area at present (details supplied); the additional water supply schemes which are either under construction, at the planning stages, or awaiting approval from his Department; if the supply capacity in the area is deemed to be sufficient to cater for the current population and for the projected increases in population over the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29542/05]

822 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the modifications which have been judged necessary to overcome shortcomings in the electronic voting machines purchased; the programme of work which is required to prepare these machines for use; the estimated costs of such work; the timeframe for the work to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29540/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

822 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the modifications which have been judged necessary to overcome shortcomings in the electronic voting machines purchased; the programme of work which is required to prepare these machines for use; the estimated costs of such work; the timeframe for the work to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29540/05]

821 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount paid to a consultancy company (details supplied) in respect of each year since 2000; the details of each of the contracts and services provided; the nature of the controls applied in the procurement process or processes; if he has satisfied himself that value for money has been achieved in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29477/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

821 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount paid to a consultancy company (details supplied) in respect of each year since 2000; the details of each of the contracts and services provided; the nature of the controls applied in the procurement process or processes; if he has satisfied himself that value for money has been achieved in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29477/05]

819 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of staff in each general service and Department grade in his Department who have been exempt for a period in excess of six months from attending meetings, dealing with correspondence, dealing with telephone queries, home or foreign travel, using computers or other duties by virtue of a medical certificate; if such long-term exemptions from normal duties are fair to other staff who must pick up the extra work; if they provide the taxpayer with good value for money; if such exemptions or certificates have been reviewed by the chief medical officer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29439/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

819 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of staff in each general service and Department grade in his Department who have been exempt for a period in excess of six months from attending meetings, dealing with correspondence, dealing with telephone queries, home or foreign travel, using computers or other duties by virtue of a medical certificate; if such long-term exemptions from normal duties are fair to other staff who must pick up the extra work; if they provide the taxpayer with good value for money; if such exemptions or certificates have been reviewed by the chief medical officer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29439/05]

818 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of personal digital assistants provided to staff in his Department; the cost of same; the cost of the most expensive personal digital assistant purchased to date; the grades to which these devices are issued; if personal digital assistants are issued as a matter of course or are subject to preparation of a business case which is subsequently scrutinised; if so, by whom the final decision on allocation of personal digital assistants is made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29424/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

818 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of personal digital assistants provided to staff in his Department; the cost of same; the cost of the most expensive personal digital assistant purchased to date; the grades to which these devices are issued; if personal digital assistants are issued as a matter of course or are subject to preparation of a business case which is subsequently scrutinised; if so, by whom the final decision on allocation of personal digital assistants is made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29424/05]

817 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount spent by his Department on briefcases; the amount refunded to staff in his Department in respect of purchases of briefcases; the number of staff who have received briefcases; the number of staff who have received refunds for briefcases they purchased; the largest single amount paid or refunded in respect of one briefcase; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29409/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

817 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount spent by his Department on briefcases; the amount refunded to staff in his Department in respect of purchases of briefcases; the number of staff who have received briefcases; the number of staff who have received refunds for briefcases they purchased; the largest single amount paid or refunded in respect of one briefcase; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29409/05]

816 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the proportion of his Department’s training budget that is spent on refunds to staff in respect of night-time or weekend study courses; the list of all courses funded by his Department in the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29394/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

816 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the proportion of his Department’s training budget that is spent on refunds to staff in respect of night-time or weekend study courses; the list of all courses funded by his Department in the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29394/05]

815 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of staff who applied for a refund of course fees in respect of courses undertaken at night or evenings; the value of refunds expected to be made by his Department in 2005; the number of staff to whom approval to attend a course was granted in the last academic year but did not subsequently apply for the refund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29379/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

815 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of staff who applied for a refund of course fees in respect of courses undertaken at night or evenings; the value of refunds expected to be made by his Department in 2005; the number of staff to whom approval to attend a course was granted in the last academic year but did not subsequently apply for the refund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29379/05]

814 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of staff in his Department to whom leave of absence, or any other absence from normal duties or place of work, in excess of two months was granted for educational purposes in any year since 2002; the nature of the educational course undertaken in each case; if there are terms or conditions relating to academic achievement attached to the granting of such leave; if personnel who were granted such leave failed to complete their courses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29364/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

814 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of staff in his Department to whom leave of absence, or any other absence from normal duties or place of work, in excess of two months was granted for educational purposes in any year since 2002; the nature of the educational course undertaken in each case; if there are terms or conditions relating to academic achievement attached to the granting of such leave; if personnel who were granted such leave failed to complete their courses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29364/05]

813 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the personnel files of staff in his Department have been copied or given to external parties; if so, the safeguards which have been put in place to ensure that no personal data of any member of staff in his Department will be released to third parties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29349/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

813 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the personnel files of staff in his Department have been copied or given to external parties; if so, the safeguards which have been put in place to ensure that no personal data of any member of staff in his Department will be released to third parties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29349/05]

812 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of compensatory leave granted or due to be granted to staff in his Department; the individuals to whom they were granted in respect of additional attendance at work before or after normal hours of attendance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29334/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

812 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of compensatory leave granted or due to be granted to staff in his Department; the individuals to whom they were granted in respect of additional attendance at work before or after normal hours of attendance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29334/05]

811 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amounts of ex gratia payments made to staff in his Department’s press office in respect of persons being on call and their additional attendance at work before or after normal hours; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29319/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

811 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amounts of ex gratia payments made to staff in his Department’s press office in respect of persons being on call and their additional attendance at work before or after normal hours; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29319/05]

810 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the rates of overtime or additional allowances payable to staff who work in his Department’s press office in respect of persons being on call and their additional attendance at work before or after normal hours; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29304/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

810 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the rates of overtime or additional allowances payable to staff who work in his Department’s press office in respect of persons being on call and their additional attendance at work before or after normal hours; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29304/05]

809 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if any local authority in County Kildare has applied for the proposed skateboard park grant as promised by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29265/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

809 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if any local authority in County Kildare has applied for the proposed skateboard park grant as promised by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29265/05]

808 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the preliminary report received from Galway County Council for a project (details supplied) in County Galway will be approved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29264/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

808 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the preliminary report received from Galway County Council for a project (details supplied) in County Galway will be approved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29264/05]

807 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to a difficulty being experienced by purchasers of affordable housing under section 9 or 10 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002 who wish to change their mortgage from the local authority to a financial institution, as the claw-back concept is attached to the mortgage and not the property; if he has received representations on the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29263/05]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 October 2005

807 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to a difficulty being experienced by purchasers of affordable housing under section 9 or 10 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002 who wish to change their mortgage from the local authority to a financial institution, as the claw-back concept is attached to the mortgage and not the property; if he has received representations on the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29263/05]