Environment

270 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received documentation from Limerick County Council for sewerage schemes (details supplied) in County Limerick; and when approval will be given to proceed to planning stage budget status. [13717/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 5 April 2006

270 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received documentation from Limerick County Council for sewerage schemes (details supplied) in County Limerick; and when approval will be given to proceed to planning stage budget status. [13717/06]

269 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the parts of the Aarhus Convention Agreement and its associated EU directives, in which 2003/4/EC and 2003/35/EC have been ratified or transposed into Irish law to date; if he will set out for each part of the Aarhus Convention Agreement and its associated EU directives, if 2003/4/EC and 2003/35/EC have been ratified or transposed into Irish law, the date on which this occurred and the legislative instrument used to do same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13705/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 5 April 2006

269 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the parts of the Aarhus Convention Agreement and its associated EU directives, in which 2003/4/EC and 2003/35/EC have been ratified or transposed into Irish law to date; if he will set out for each part of the Aarhus Convention Agreement and its associated EU directives, if 2003/4/EC and 2003/35/EC have been ratified or transposed into Irish law, the date on which this occurred and the legislative instrument used to do same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13705/06]

268 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the bogs in Galway east which are designated for conservation under the European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13704/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 5 April 2006

268 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the bogs in Galway east which are designated for conservation under the European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13704/06]

267 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 532 of 28 March 2006 if a person wishing to cut turf for his or her own use on bogs not designated for conservation must communicate with any agency or Department by way of application for consent, licence or otherwise before so doing, or if such person can operate as heretofore; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13703/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 5 April 2006

267 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 532 of 28 March 2006 if a person wishing to cut turf for his or her own use on bogs not designated for conservation must communicate with any agency or Department by way of application for consent, licence or otherwise before so doing, or if such person can operate as heretofore; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13703/06]

266 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when his Department will give final approval for developments (details supplied) in County Cork. [13690/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 5 April 2006

266 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when his Department will give final approval for developments (details supplied) in County Cork. [13690/06]

265 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on allocating further funding under the home improvement scheme for the elderly and central heating grants to the Health Service Executive in County Kildare, in view of the fact that its budget for 2006 is exhausted. [13596/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 5 April 2006

265 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on allocating further funding under the home improvement scheme for the elderly and central heating grants to the Health Service Executive in County Kildare, in view of the fact that its budget for 2006 is exhausted. [13596/06]

Great Lakes Collaboration Implementation Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 5 April 2006

Great Lakes Collaboration Implementation Act of 2006 - National Aquatic Invasive Species Act of 2006 - Amends the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 to: (1) require certain vessels operating in U.S. waters to have invasive species management plans; (2) direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish vessel performance requirements, numeric ballast water discharge standards, and civil and criminal penalties for violations; (3) require federal agencies to restrict the importation of live aquatic organisms of species not in trade that have a high or moderate probability of undesirable impacts; and (4) declare importation of such species to be unlawful and prescribe civil and criminal penalties for violations. Establishes the Emergency Rapid Response Fund to provide financial assistance to a state or a federal rapid response team to assist in implementing rapid response measures for aquatic invasive species. Renames the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 as the Nonindigenous Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention and Control Act of 1990. Amends the federal criminal code to prohibit importation of specified carp species into the United States. Directs the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works to: (1) upgrade and make permanent the Chicago sanitary and ship canal dispersal barrier in Chicago, Illinois; and (2) construct dispersal barriers as necessary. Prohibits federal agencies from authorizing, funding, or carrying out any action that would promote the introduction or spread of invasive species unless the benefits of the action outweigh the harm. Establishes the National Invasive Species Council (NISC) as an independent entity in the executive branch to lead and coordinate efforts to minimize the negative effects caused by invasive species and to reduce the threat of further invasions of such species. Requires NISC to develop a National Invasive Species Management Plan and to establish an Invasive Species Advisory Committee. Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act of 2006 - Reauthorizes and modifies the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act of 1990. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to: (1) authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to provide funding for wastewater assistance to certain municipalities and small publicly-owned treatment works; (2) authorize states to provide additional subsidization to benefit certain municipalities or state agencies that already receive assistance from the water pollution control revolving fund or to implement certain alternative techniques; (3) require the Great Lakes National Program Office to provide grants to reduce the quantity of mercury in the Great Lakes; and (4) require the President include a joint Great Lakes research plan in the annual budget submitted to Congress. Requires: (1) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to provide grants for Great Lakes research and monitoring activities; (2) the President to establish a system that detects and predicts changes in the ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes environment that impact certain U.S. systems; and (3) the National Ocean Research Leadership Council to establish an interagency program office to be known as OceanUS to be responsible for program planning and coordination of such observing system. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to require the Program Office to develop specified science-based indicators of water quality and related environmental factors in the Great Lakes. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) provide financial assistance for certain restoration or remediation projects; and (2) restore and remediate waterfronts and related areas. Establishes: (1) the Great Lakes Interagency Task Force, as established by Executive Order 13340, as a task force within EPA; (2) a Great Lakes Regional Collaboration Executive Committee to hold public meetings and make recommendations and reports on Great Lakes restoration goals and progress; and (3) the Great Lakes Regional Collaboration to maintain a restoration and protection strategy for use in Great Lakes program implementation and funding decisions, to serve as a forum for addressing regional issues relating to ecosystem restoration and protection of the Great Lakes, and to establish an oversight forum to coordinate and enhance implementation of Great Lakes programs. Provides funding for a variety of Great Lakes programs.

Great Lakes Collaboration Implementation Act

United States · United States Congress · 5 April 2006

Great Lakes Collaboration Implementation Act - National Aquatic Invasive Species Act of 2006 - Amends the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 to: (1) require certain vessels operating in U.S. waters to have invasive species management plans; (2) direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish vessel performance requirements, measurable numeric ballast water discharge standards, and civil and criminal penalties for violations; (3) require federal agencies to restrict the importation of live aquatic organisms of species not in trade that have a high or moderate probability of undesirable impacts; and (4) declare importation of such species to be unlawful and prescribe civil and criminal penalties for violations. Directs the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works to: (1) upgrade and make permanent the Chicago sanitary and ship canal dispersal barrier in Chicago, Illinois; and (2) construct dispersal barriers as necessary. Renames the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 as the Nonindigenous Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention and Control Act of 1990. National Invasive Species Council Act - Prohibits federal agencies from authorizing, funding, or carrying out any action that would promote the introduction or spread of invasive species unless the benefits of the action outweigh the harm. Establishes the National Invasive Species Council (NISC) as an independent entity in the executive branch to lead and coordinate efforts to minimize the negative effects caused by invasive species and to reduce the threat of further invasions. Requires NISC to develop a National Invasive Species Management Plan and to establish an Invasive Species Advisory Committee. Reauthorizes and modifies the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act of 1990. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to: (1) authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to provide funding for wastewater assistance to certain municipalities and small publicly-owned treatment works; (2) authorize states to provide additional subsidization to benefit certain municipalities or state agencies that already receive assistance from the water pollution control revolving fund or to implement certain alternative techniques; (3) replace each reference to "navigable waters of the United States" with a reference to "waters of the United States"; (4) require the Great Lakes National Program Office to provide grants to reduce the quantity of mercury in the Great Lakes; and (5) require the President include a joint Great Lakes research plan in the annual budget submitted to Congress. Requires: (1) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to provide grants for Great Lakes research and monitoring activities; (2) the President to establish a system that detects and predicts changes in the ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes environment that impact certain U.S. systems; and (3) the National Ocean Research Leadership Council to establish an interagency program office to be known as OceanUS to be responsible for program planning and coordination of such observing system. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to require the Program Office to develop specified science-based indicators of water quality and related environmental factors in the Great Lakes. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) provide financial assistance for certain restoration or remediation projects; and (2) restore and remediate waterfronts and related areas. Establishes: (1) the Great Lakes Interagency Task Force, as established by Executive Order 13340, as a task force within EPA; (2) a Great Lakes Regional Collaboration Executive Committee to hold meetings and make recommendations and reports on Great Lakes restoration goals and progress; and (3) the Great Lakes Regional Collaboration to develop a restoration and protection strategy for use in Great Lakes program implementation and funding decisions, to serve as a forum for addressing regional issues relating to ecosystem restoration and protection of the Great Lakes, and to establish an oversight forum to coordinate and enhance implementation of Great Lakes programs. Provides funding for a variety of Great Lakes programs.

Einrichtung eines parlamentarischen Beirats für nachhaltige Entwicklung (G-SIG: 16010456)

Germany · German Bundestag · 5 April 2006

Einrichtung des Beirates mit 20 Mitgliedern; Aufgaben: Begleitung der nationalen Europäischen Nachhaltigkeitsstrategien, Berichte und Empfehlungen für Ausschüsse, Zusammenarbeit mit anderen Parlamenten, Unterstützung der gesellschaftlichen Diskussion, Vorlage eines Berichts mindestens alle zwei Jahre

Folgen der Erdöl- und Erdgasförderung in GUS-Ländern und der Türkei (G-SIG: 16010473)

Germany · German Bundestag · 5 April 2006

Erdöl- und Erdgasförder- und -exportmengen bis 2002, ökologische sowie wirtschaftliche und soziale Folgen, politische Initiativen Deutschlands und Beteiligung an aktuellen Projekten: Schäden an Umwelt und Natur, Emissionen, Verluste bei Förderung und Transport, Unfälle, Abfackeln, Einhaltung internationaler Umweltkonventionen; Folgeschäden für Bevölkerung, Volkswirtschaft und Regierungsführung, Millenniumsentwicklungsziele und Entwicklungszusammenarbeit, Korruption, Rüstungsausgaben, deutsche Verursacherverantwortung; Initiativen bei G8, EU und Weltbank, Ausbau erneuerbarer Energien, Kreditleistungen und Bürgschaften <p> </p>

UN-Moratorium für die Grundschleppnetzfischerei auf der Hohen See durchsetzen (G-SIG: 16010459)

Germany · German Bundestag · 5 April 2006

Weltweites UN-Moratorium der Grundschleppnetzfischerei auf hoher See, Entwicklung eines Fischereimanagements, Einrichtung von Schutzgebieten, Schutz bedrohter Tiefseefische und - Ökosysteme <p> </p>

Verbrennung von Halmgut als Biobrennstoff in Kleinfeuerungsanlagen neu regeln (G-SIG: 16010458)

Germany · German Bundestag · 5 April 2006

Neuregelung der Verbrennung von Halmgut-Brennstoffen, vor allem Stroh und Getreide, thermische Nutzung dieser Biobrennstoffe in Kleinfeuerungsanlagen, keine Verbrennung von verzehrtauglichem Brotgetreide, Einhaltung von Abgasemissions-Grenzwerten, die der TA Luft für genehmigungspflichtige Anlagen entsprechen, Einhaltung des Dioxingrenzwerts von 0,1 Nanogramm pro Nm3 <p> </p>

595 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the communication he has had from the European Commission in relation to removing the possibility to retain structures built without planning permission for which retention has been sought; what he intends to do in response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13560/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

595 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the communication he has had from the European Commission in relation to removing the possibility to retain structures built without planning permission for which retention has been sought; what he intends to do in response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13560/06]

594 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on requiring local authorities to charge schools for water only where there is evidence of water being wasted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13558/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

594 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on requiring local authorities to charge schools for water only where there is evidence of water being wasted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13558/06]

593 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department has completed its examination of Cork County Council’s revised preliminary report and cost estimate for water supply works for the Killeagh water and sewerage scheme which is included in the Department’s water services investment programme 2005-07 under the serviced land initiative; when he will be in a position to give his approval; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13529/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

593 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department has completed its examination of Cork County Council’s revised preliminary report and cost estimate for water supply works for the Killeagh water and sewerage scheme which is included in the Department’s water services investment programme 2005-07 under the serviced land initiative; when he will be in a position to give his approval; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13529/06]

592 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the voluntary organisations to which grant assistance was allocated for housing units since 2002; the units which amount to a total of 259; further to his reply to Parliamentary Question Nos. 1445 and 1452 of 25 January, the named directors of each such organisation; the beneficial ownership of the units in question as being vested in the organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13419/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

592 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the voluntary organisations to which grant assistance was allocated for housing units since 2002; the units which amount to a total of 259; further to his reply to Parliamentary Question Nos. 1445 and 1452 of 25 January, the named directors of each such organisation; the beneficial ownership of the units in question as being vested in the organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13419/06]

591 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he proposes to offer further funding to Kildare County Council by way of capital allocation to assist with the implementation of group water schemes; if funds will be provided as requested by the local authority; if such allocation will include sufficient funds to facilitate the Ballyna group water scheme and other such schemes in view of the fact that the Department’s allocation to date of €1 million is far short of requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13384/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

591 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he proposes to offer further funding to Kildare County Council by way of capital allocation to assist with the implementation of group water schemes; if funds will be provided as requested by the local authority; if such allocation will include sufficient funds to facilitate the Ballyna group water scheme and other such schemes in view of the fact that the Department’s allocation to date of €1 million is far short of requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13384/06]

590 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that he and his Department have given approval to Kildare County Council and other local authorities to charge €20,000 per site to qualified applicants for private sites and impose a clawback, allow no reduction in cases where no off-street car parking is available, in contrast with the cost of housing sites to Respond which he has also approved and where no clawback applies; the method whereby the capital funding for the construction of Respond housing schemes has been approved by his Department; the details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13383/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

590 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that he and his Department have given approval to Kildare County Council and other local authorities to charge €20,000 per site to qualified applicants for private sites and impose a clawback, allow no reduction in cases where no off-street car parking is available, in contrast with the cost of housing sites to Respond which he has also approved and where no clawback applies; the method whereby the capital funding for the construction of Respond housing schemes has been approved by his Department; the details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13383/06]

588 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; his views on whether that figure is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13283/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

588 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; his views on whether that figure is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13283/06]

587 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding a scheme (details supplied) in County Laois. [13267/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

587 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding a scheme (details supplied) in County Laois. [13267/06]

586 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if planning permission is required to locate a new slipway in County Mayo (details supplied); and if public consultation is required for this proposal. [13252/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

586 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if planning permission is required to locate a new slipway in County Mayo (details supplied); and if public consultation is required for this proposal. [13252/06]

589 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position concerning the proposed new sewerage schemes at Kilkerrin and Dunmore, County Galway; if all the contracts are signed to complete the projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13293/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

589 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position concerning the proposed new sewerage schemes at Kilkerrin and Dunmore, County Galway; if all the contracts are signed to complete the projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13293/06]

585 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when his Department will approve the tender documents in relation to the design, build and operation of a sewerage plant (details supplied) in County Galway; when it is envisaged construction of the works will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13233/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

585 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when his Department will approve the tender documents in relation to the design, build and operation of a sewerage plant (details supplied) in County Galway; when it is envisaged construction of the works will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13233/06]

584 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 205 of 23 March 2005, if there is an independent verification available to the Department to support the figures given in his reply that 20 or more hunting groups kill in total two to three hares in a month. [13053/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

584 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 205 of 23 March 2005, if there is an independent verification available to the Department to support the figures given in his reply that 20 or more hunting groups kill in total two to three hares in a month. [13053/06]

583 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on the progress to date on delivering the 10,000 affordable housing units as promised under Sustaining Progress; the exact locations and numbers agreed to date; if he will further report on the status of each such development; the qualifying criteria and the conditions governing the sale of houses under this scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12990/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

583 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on the progress to date on delivering the 10,000 affordable housing units as promised under Sustaining Progress; the exact locations and numbers agreed to date; if he will further report on the status of each such development; the qualifying criteria and the conditions governing the sale of houses under this scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12990/06]

582 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there is information in his Department regarding the number of housing estates which are expected to be taken in charge by local authorities in 2006; the number of houses which will be affected by this move; the number of housing estates which will remain to be taken in charge in 2007 and subsequent years; the number of houses which will be affected by same; if he will provide these figures on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12989/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

582 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there is information in his Department regarding the number of housing estates which are expected to be taken in charge by local authorities in 2006; the number of houses which will be affected by this move; the number of housing estates which will remain to be taken in charge in 2007 and subsequent years; the number of houses which will be affected by same; if he will provide these figures on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12989/06]

581 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding a project (details supplied) in County Laois. [12988/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

581 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding a project (details supplied) in County Laois. [12988/06]

580 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 600 of 7 March, the level of divergent views submitted to the working group on the monitoring of dog breeding establishments; when he expects the examination of the responses to his Department on this matter to be completed; when he is likely to determine an appropriate response; his views on whether there is ongoing and unnecessary animal suffering due to the vacuum in the legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12981/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

580 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 600 of 7 March, the level of divergent views submitted to the working group on the monitoring of dog breeding establishments; when he expects the examination of the responses to his Department on this matter to be completed; when he is likely to determine an appropriate response; his views on whether there is ongoing and unnecessary animal suffering due to the vacuum in the legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12981/06]

579 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received details from local authorities regarding vacant housing stock in local authority areas; if so, the details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12897/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

579 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received details from local authorities regarding vacant housing stock in local authority areas; if so, the details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12897/06]

578 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the sewerage schemes (details supplied) in County Westmeath will progress; the reason for the delays with those schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12851-06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

578 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the sewerage schemes (details supplied) in County Westmeath will progress; the reason for the delays with those schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12851-06]

577 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, regarding Parliamentary Question No. 838 of 21 March — the address was Maddenstown Terrace, Maddenstown, Curragh, County Kildare instead of the address of Caragh, County Kildare as per the question — there would be an application with his Department in regard to refurbishment of houses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12841-06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

577 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, regarding Parliamentary Question No. 838 of 21 March — the address was Maddenstown Terrace, Maddenstown, Curragh, County Kildare instead of the address of Caragh, County Kildare as per the question — there would be an application with his Department in regard to refurbishment of houses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12841-06]

576 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when persons who were compelled to give up their turbary under the EU directive which focused on the presentation of high or raised bogs and the implementation of NHA and SAC by Dúchas will be awarded their compensation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13410-06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

576 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when persons who were compelled to give up their turbary under the EU directive which focused on the presentation of high or raised bogs and the implementation of NHA and SAC by Dúchas will be awarded their compensation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13410-06]

575 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the analysis contained in the recent Environmental Protection Agency report on water quality, which found that agriculture is a more significant contributor to river and lake pollution than services such as those provided by local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13261-06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

575 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the analysis contained in the recent Environmental Protection Agency report on water quality, which found that agriculture is a more significant contributor to river and lake pollution than services such as those provided by local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13261-06]

399 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food her plans to introduce legislation to replace the Protection of Animals Act 1911, as amended in 1965, in respect of the protection of animals, but cats in particular, as the current legislation is regarded by animal welfare groups as being outdated, ineffective, unenforceable and unacceptable to them in the 21st century welfare environment, as outlined in correspondence (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13388/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

399 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food her plans to introduce legislation to replace the Protection of Animals Act 1911, as amended in 1965, in respect of the protection of animals, but cats in particular, as the current legislation is regarded by animal welfare groups as being outdated, ineffective, unenforceable and unacceptable to them in the 21st century welfare environment, as outlined in correspondence (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13388/06]

192 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that public health nurses here unlike the UK are unable, for insurance reasons, to visit schools to give advice and raise awareness regarding anaphylaxis and the way in which to manage same in a school environment; her plans to facilitate public health nurses to carry out this work; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12977/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 4 April 2006

192 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that public health nurses here unlike the UK are unable, for insurance reasons, to visit schools to give advice and raise awareness regarding anaphylaxis and the way in which to manage same in a school environment; her plans to facilitate public health nurses to carry out this work; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12977/06]

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 2006

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007 - Authorizes appropriations for the Department of Defense (DOD), military construction, and national security programs of the Department of Energy for FY2007. Authorizes appropriations to DOD for: (1) procurement, including aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and other procurement; (2) research, development, test, and evaluation, including ballistic missile defense; (3) operation and maintenance, including defense working capital funds, the defense health program, chemical agents and munitions destruction, and environmental restoration; (4) active and reserve military personnel, including end strengths; (5) the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program; and (6) Guard and reserve forces facilities. Sets forth provisions or requirements concerning: (1) active and reserve military personnel policy, including expanded duties for National Guard and reserve members; (2) military education and training; (3) military justice, including an Air Force Office of Special Investigations; (4) military pay and allowances; (5) retired pay and survivor benefits; (6) military health care; (7) acquisition policy and management, including National Defense Stockpile disposals; (8) DOD organization and management, including intelligence-related matters; (9) counter-drug activities and matters related to homeland security; (10) civilian personnel matters; (11) matters relating to other nations; (12) cooperative threat reduction with states of the former Soviet Union; and (13) DOD chemical demilitarization construction. Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2007 for military construction for the Armed Forces and defense agencies.

Healthy Places Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 2006

Healthy Places Act of 2006 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish an interagency working group to discuss environmental health concerns, particularly concerns disproportionately affecting disadvantaged populations. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to establish a program at the National Center of Environmental Health at CDC focused on advancing the field of health impact assessment. Requires the Director to develop guidance for the assessment of potential health effects of land use, housing, and transportation policy and plans. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director, to: (1) establish a program to provide funding and technical assistance to state or local governments affected or potentially affected by an activity or proposed activity to prepare health impact assessments; and (2) establish and maintain a health impact assessment database. Requires the Director to establish a grant program to award grants to state or local communities for environmental health improvement activities. Requires grantees to: (1) establish a planning and prioritizing council; and (2) conduct environmental health assessment. Requires the Secretary to provide grants to public or private nonprofit institutions to conduct and coordinate research on the built environment and its influence on individual and population-based health.

Healthy Places Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 2006

Healthy Places Act of 2006 - Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish an interagency working group to discuss environmental health concerns, particularly concerns disproportionately affecting disadvantaged populations. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to establish a program at the National Center of Environmental Health at CDC focused on advancing the field of health impact assessment. Requires the Director to develop guidance for the assessment of potential health effects of land use, housing, and transportation policy and plans. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Director, to: (1) establish a program to provide funding and technical assistance to state or local governments affected or potentially affected by an activity or proposed activity to prepare health impact assessments; and (2) establish and maintain a health impact assessment database. Requires the Director to establish a grant program to award grants to state or local communities for environmental health improvement activities. Requires grantees to: (1) establish a planning and prioritizing council; and (2) conduct environmental health assessment. Requires the Secretary to provide grants to public or private nonprofit institutions to conduct and coordinate research on the built environment and its influence on individual and population-based health.

Department of Environmental Protection Act

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 2006

Department of Environmental Protection Act - Redesignates the Environmental Protection Agency as an executive department, the Department of Environmental Protection, to be headed by a Secretary of Environmental Protection who shall be appointed by the President.

National Transportation Safety Board Reauthorization Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 2006

National Transportation Safety Board Amendments Act of 2006 - Amends federal transportation law to extend the authorization of appropriations for the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) for FY2007-FY2009, including an emergency fund for necessary NTSB expenses for accident investigations. Requires, in addition to current related requirements, the NTSB to establish staffed bureaus, divisions, or offices to investigate and report on accidents involving marine transportation. Decreases the amount made available out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund for FY2006 for airport planning and development and noise compatibility planning and programs. Requires an annual report to Congress to include a description of NTSB Academy activities and operations. Grants the NTSB the authority to investigate major marine casualties occurring under U.S. waters (currently, on US navigable waters or territorial seas). Eliminates the requirement that the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation (DOT) be reimbursed by the NTSB for the costs associated with the Inspector General in preventing and detecting fraud and abuse in the NTSB. Rescinds a specified amount of unobligated balances of funds made available to compensate air carriers for losses incurred as the result of the federal ground stop order and the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Requires the Secretary of Transportation, with respect to the environmental review of a project to improve runway safety areas on Runway 8/26 at Juneau International Airport, to only select as the preferred alternative the least expensive runway safety area alternative.

Supporting the goals and ideals of National Clean Beaches Week and recognizing the considerable value of American beaches and their role in American culture.

United States · United States Congress · 4 April 2006

Supports the goals and ideals of National Clean Beaches Week. Recognizes the value of beaches to the American way of life and the important contributions of beaches to the economy, recreation, and natural environment of the United States. Encourages all Americans to work to keep beaches, which are a critical part of the natural heritage of the United States, safe and clean for the continued enjoyment of the public. Urges individuals to engage in beach cleanup during National Clean Beaches Week.

U.S. Additional Protocol Implementation Act

United States · United States Congress · 3 April 2006

U.S. Additional Protocol Implementation Act - Authorizes the President to: (1) implement this Act and the Protocol Additional to the Agreement between the United States of America and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for the Application of Safeguards in the United States of America, with Annexes, signed in Vienna on June 12, 1998 (Additional Protocol); and (2) designate which federal agencies shall issue or amend and enforce regulations to implement this Act and the provisions of the Additional Protocol. Prohibits complementary access to any location in the United States pursuant to the Additional Protocol without the authorization of the U.S. Government. Authorizes complementary IAEA access in accordance with this Act to any location in the United States subject to access under the Additional Protocol. Prescribes complementary access procedures, including consents, warrants, and warrantless complementary access. Exempts information acquired by the U.S. Government under this Act or under the Additional Protocol from certain statutory disclosure requirements. Prescribes recordkeeping procedures. Sets forth civil and criminal penalties for: (1) recordkeeping violations; and (2) impeding authorized complementary access. Grants U.S. district courts jurisdiction over civil actions to restrain such violations and to compel actions required by this Act or the Additional Protocol. Directs the President to notify certain congressional committees of IAEA Board approval of wide-area environmental sampling for use as a safeguards verification tool. Prohibits the United States from permitting location-specific environmental sampling proposed by the IAEA in the United States unless the President has made specified determinations and reported to certain congressional committees.

Order of the Court of First Instance (Fourth Chamber) of 3 April 2006.#International Institute for the Urban Environment v Commission of the European Communities.#Research and technological development programme entitled ‘Promotion of innovation and encouragement of SME participation’ - Community financing - Articles 230 EC and 238 EC - Arbitration clause - Action for annulment - Admissibility.#Case T-74/05.

European Union · Court of Justice of the European Union · 3 April 2006

Pumpspeicherkraftwerk in der Nationalparkregion Hohe Tauern (Osttirol)

Austria · National Council · 31 March 2006

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Dr. Kurt Grünewald, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend Pumpspeicherkraftwerk in der Nationalparkregion Hohe Tauern (Osttirol)

Specialty Crops Competition Act of 2006

United States · United States Congress · 31 March 2006

Specialty Crops Competition Act of 2006 - Defines "specialty crop" as each U.S. agricultural crop other than wheat, feed grains, oilseeds, cotton, rice, peanuts, sugar, dry peas, lentils, chickpeas, and tobacco. Amends the Agricultural Adjustment Act to provide for marketing order specialty crop food safety programs. Amends the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to: (1) increase assistance for the tree assistance program; (2) provide for increased fruit, vegetable, and specialty crop purchases; and (3) increase and extend specialty crop technical assistance. Obligates funds for fruit and vegetable marketing news activities. Amends the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to obligate funds for specialty crop operating loans. Provides for: (1) the study of the extent to which U.S. specialty crops have or have not benefited from any reductions of foreign trade barriers; and (2) a foreign market access strategy plan based on such study. Establishes a division in the Department of Agriculture to process petitions for reducing sanitary and phytosanitary export barriers and an office to develop and protect intellectual property rights in plants and plant materials. Amends Federal patent law to define &quot;essentially derived plant.&quot; Provides for: (1) a national specialty crops development initiative grants program; (2) research on mechanized harvesting and new production and processing methods; and (3) a national clean plant network. Establishes the Invasive Pest and Disease Response Fund in the Treasury to support emergency eradication and research activities. Provides for independent scientific advice and peer review with regard to specialty crop import and export requests. Authorizes food safety initiatives. Amends the Food Security Act of 1985 to remove the income limitation from the environmental quality incentives program. Addresses the development of voluntary sustainable practices guidelines for producers and processors of specialty crops.

Kennzeichnung emissionsarmer Fahrzeuge - Erweiterung der Begutachtungsplakette (§ 57a KFG) um eine Kennzeichnung nach Schadstoffklassen

Austria · National Council · 30 March 2006

Antrag der Abgeordneten Kai Jan Krainer, Kolleginnen und Kollegen betreffend Kennzeichnung emissionsarmer Fahrzeuge - Erweiterung der Begutachtungsplakette (§ 57a KFG) um eine Kennzeichnung nach Schadstoffklassen

284 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of State employees on suspension with pay as on 31 December 2004 and 31 December 2005; and the details of same. [13153/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 30 March 2006

284 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of State employees on suspension with pay as on 31 December 2004 and 31 December 2005; and the details of same. [13153/06]

283 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position on the Residential Tenancy Act 2004 whereby local authorities are to take over the rental accommodation scheme for people in rented accommodation for more than 18 months; if landlords of health board tenants do not wish to be part of this scheme they can opt out; the position regarding disabled people or old age pensioners who are in receipt of a rent allowance and are in suitable accommodation for their needs but their landlords do not want to take part in the scheme; if there will be exemptions in their case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12792/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 30 March 2006

283 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position on the Residential Tenancy Act 2004 whereby local authorities are to take over the rental accommodation scheme for people in rented accommodation for more than 18 months; if landlords of health board tenants do not wish to be part of this scheme they can opt out; the position regarding disabled people or old age pensioners who are in receipt of a rent allowance and are in suitable accommodation for their needs but their landlords do not want to take part in the scheme; if there will be exemptions in their case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12792/06]

282 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of motor tax collected by each local authority in the years 2004 and 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12785/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 30 March 2006

282 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of motor tax collected by each local authority in the years 2004 and 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12785/06]

281 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount collected by each local authority in the form of development levies in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12784/06]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 30 March 2006

281 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount collected by each local authority in the form of development levies in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12784/06]