Environment

648 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the statutory charge for directional signs indicating bed and breakfast locations will not be increased to avoid burdening bed and breakfast owners further who already have considerable overheads such as commercial rates which are not paid for by property owners renting accommodation; and if he will liaise with his colleague, the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism on the importance of the bed and breakfast sector for the economy in general and the tourism industry in particular. [30176/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

648 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the statutory charge for directional signs indicating bed and breakfast locations will not be increased to avoid burdening bed and breakfast owners further who already have considerable overheads such as commercial rates which are not paid for by property owners renting accommodation; and if he will liaise with his colleague, the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism on the importance of the bed and breakfast sector for the economy in general and the tourism industry in particular. [30176/04]

647 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if sanction will be given for the commencement of work on the extension of the Innishannon water supply schemes (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30174/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

647 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if sanction will be given for the commencement of work on the extension of the Innishannon water supply schemes (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30174/04]

646 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the body which is responsible for monitoring noise emissions from aeroplanes at Weston Aerodrome; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that South Dublin County Council says it is not its responsibility; if his attention has been further drawn to the fact that the Irish Aviation Authority has stated in a written response that this is not within its statutory remit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30002/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

646 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the body which is responsible for monitoring noise emissions from aeroplanes at Weston Aerodrome; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that South Dublin County Council says it is not its responsibility; if his attention has been further drawn to the fact that the Irish Aviation Authority has stated in a written response that this is not within its statutory remit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30002/04]

645 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in relation to a new fire station (details supplied) in County Mayo; if all the documents are in place for this project; when this project will commence; and the detailed breakdown of all the stages completed to date and the stages for completion. [29995/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

645 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in relation to a new fire station (details supplied) in County Mayo; if all the documents are in place for this project; when this project will commence; and the detailed breakdown of all the stages completed to date and the stages for completion. [29995/04]

644 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will request a detailed report regarding the purchase of land by Trim Town Council beside Trim Castle for use as a car park for which it obtained Government funding; if all proper procedures were adhered to relative to procurement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29944/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

644 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will request a detailed report regarding the purchase of land by Trim Town Council beside Trim Castle for use as a car park for which it obtained Government funding; if all proper procedures were adhered to relative to procurement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29944/04]

643 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will consider the appointment of a representative of docklands residents associations to the executive board of the Dublin Docklands Development Authority to ensure that the interests of local residents have a voice at board level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29943/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

643 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will consider the appointment of a representative of docklands residents associations to the executive board of the Dublin Docklands Development Authority to ensure that the interests of local residents have a voice at board level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29943/04]

642 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position on the recruitment process for IT officer posts, namely, IS analyst-developer, IS project leader and IS technical support officer within local authorities (details supplied); the reason there is a clause in the criteria which states that an applicant has to be a serving member of a local authority, health board and so on; the further reason IT jobs are not treated like other professions within local authorities; the further reason persons who have worked in a local authority before and possess the necessary qualification and experience relevant to the job cannot be allowed to apply for such positions; the further reason IT positions cannot be made available at grade IV level if external applicants are not eligible to apply for grade V positions or a special panel created for external candidates who have worked within local authorities before; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29941/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

642 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position on the recruitment process for IT officer posts, namely, IS analyst-developer, IS project leader and IS technical support officer within local authorities (details supplied); the reason there is a clause in the criteria which states that an applicant has to be a serving member of a local authority, health board and so on; the further reason IT jobs are not treated like other professions within local authorities; the further reason persons who have worked in a local authority before and possess the necessary qualification and experience relevant to the job cannot be allowed to apply for such positions; the further reason IT positions cannot be made available at grade IV level if external applicants are not eligible to apply for grade V positions or a special panel created for external candidates who have worked within local authorities before; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29941/04]

641 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he plans to issue directives to local authorities and An Bord Pleanála to implement his policy on one-off housing rather than the guidelines proposed by his predecessor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29940/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

641 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he plans to issue directives to local authorities and An Bord Pleanála to implement his policy on one-off housing rather than the guidelines proposed by his predecessor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29940/04]

640 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if research has been undertaken on the number of seals off the Irish coast; if there are circumstances whereby seals can be culled in a controlled and caring manner having regard to the scientific research available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29836/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

640 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if research has been undertaken on the number of seals off the Irish coast; if there are circumstances whereby seals can be culled in a controlled and caring manner having regard to the scientific research available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29836/04]

639 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedure a person can follow if they believe there is serious air pollution in their area which is affecting their health; the person they should contact to monitor the pollution and deal with this problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29809/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

639 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedure a person can follow if they believe there is serious air pollution in their area which is affecting their health; the person they should contact to monitor the pollution and deal with this problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29809/04]

638 Mr. M. Moynihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the state of progress on a development (details supplied) in County Cork; if he will outline the delays in this project since the announcement of funding by his Department in 1999; and the reasons therefor. [29179/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

638 Mr. M. Moynihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the state of progress on a development (details supplied) in County Cork; if he will outline the delays in this project since the announcement of funding by his Department in 1999; and the reasons therefor. [29179/04]

637 Ms M. Wallace asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the legislative mechanism by which a local authority can bring forward by-laws preventing alcohol consumption in public parks and open spaces. [29780/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

637 Ms M. Wallace asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the legislative mechanism by which a local authority can bring forward by-laws preventing alcohol consumption in public parks and open spaces. [29780/04]

636 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if tenders have been received for the completion of a sewerage scheme (details supplied) in County Westmeath; the date on which these tenders were received; if funding has been sanctioned for this scheme; and if not, when it is expected that this scheme will be given approval. [29773/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

636 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if tenders have been received for the completion of a sewerage scheme (details supplied) in County Westmeath; the date on which these tenders were received; if funding has been sanctioned for this scheme; and if not, when it is expected that this scheme will be given approval. [29773/04]

635 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the grant aid available for the installation of lifts for the disabled in buildings that are used by the public, for example, community centres, churches and parish halls; and if there is no grant aid available, if he will consider introducing such a grant scheme. [29770/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

635 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the grant aid available for the installation of lifts for the disabled in buildings that are used by the public, for example, community centres, churches and parish halls; and if there is no grant aid available, if he will consider introducing such a grant scheme. [29770/04]

634 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in relation to a project (details supplied) in County Mayo; when he expects the work to commence on the visitor centre; if planning permission has been secured; when the construction phase will commence; and when it is expected that the facility will open. [29731/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

634 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in relation to a project (details supplied) in County Mayo; when he expects the work to commence on the visitor centre; if planning permission has been secured; when the construction phase will commence; and when it is expected that the facility will open. [29731/04]

633 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Question No. 179 of 13 October 2004, when the review of the disabled persons grant scheme in his Department will be concluded; if he intends to publish the report of the review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29708/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

633 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Question No. 179 of 13 October 2004, when the review of the disabled persons grant scheme in his Department will be concluded; if he intends to publish the report of the review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29708/04]

632 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Question No. 826 of 27 April 2004, if he will approve funding for the upgrade to the south Roscommon water supply and Killeglan springs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29699/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

632 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Question No. 826 of 27 April 2004, if he will approve funding for the upgrade to the south Roscommon water supply and Killeglan springs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29699/04]

631 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received the preliminary report on the development of a sewerage scheme for the village of Creggs, County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29697/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

631 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received the preliminary report on the development of a sewerage scheme for the village of Creggs, County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29697/04]

630 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Question No. 1203 of 29 September 2004, the status of the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29694/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

630 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Question No. 1203 of 29 September 2004, the status of the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29694/04]

627 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason his Department chose not to reply to correspondence and notices of action from the European Commission and preferred to argue the case before the court, with its significant cost to the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29675/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

627 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason his Department chose not to reply to correspondence and notices of action from the European Commission and preferred to argue the case before the court, with its significant cost to the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29675/04]

626 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason his Department failed to comply with EU Regulation No. 2037-2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29674/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

626 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason his Department failed to comply with EU Regulation No. 2037-2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29674/04]

629 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the mechanisms that are in place to ensure compliance with EU environmental regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29677/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

629 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the mechanisms that are in place to ensure compliance with EU environmental regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29677/04]

628 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in view of Ireland’s record concerning compliance with EU environmental regulations, he will consider upgrading or consolidating enforcement mechanisms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29676/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

628 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in view of Ireland’s record concerning compliance with EU environmental regulations, he will consider upgrading or consolidating enforcement mechanisms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29676/04]

625 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason that between 1998 and 2003, Ireland has had the second highest number of environment infringement cases of all EU member states; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29673/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

625 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason that between 1998 and 2003, Ireland has had the second highest number of environment infringement cases of all EU member states; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29673/04]

624 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the proposal to establish a community warden service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29664/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

624 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the proposal to establish a community warden service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29664/04]

623 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position with regard to a water scheme extension (details supplied) in County Mayo; when funding was applied for by the council for this project; when funding will be approved; and the expected start date of this extension. [29661/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

623 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position with regard to a water scheme extension (details supplied) in County Mayo; when funding was applied for by the council for this project; when funding will be approved; and the expected start date of this extension. [29661/04]

622 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the guidelines and best practice advice on tree protection that are available from his Department to local authorities for their subsequent proactive distribution to architects, developers and planners. [29804/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 23 November 2004

622 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the guidelines and best practice advice on tree protection that are available from his Department to local authorities for their subsequent proactive distribution to architects, developers and planners. [29804/04]

Innovation Competitiveness Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 20 November 2004

Innovation Competitiveness Act of 2004 - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to designate a Technology Transfer Director within the Technology Administration to perform oversight and policy and development for technology transfer activities at the Department of Commerce. Requires the Director to: (1) coordinate activities of the Interagency Working Group on Technolgy Transfer; (2) coordinate with certain technology partnership ombudsmans; and (3) establish procedures for coordinating the Commerce Department's technology transfer outreach activities between appropriate Federal agencies, including the National Technical Information Service and the Federal Laboratory Consortium for Technology Transfer. Directs the Secretary to establish a research program within the Technology Administration that: (1) involves consultation with the various units of the Commerce Department; (2) builds upon ongoing private sector efforts; and (3) involves consortia. Instructs the Director to work with industry, trade associations, professional societies, and others to: (1) develop improved technology transfer research tools and practices; and (2) conduct a specified study. Requires the Director to oversee a dissemination and technical assistance program for the immediate dissemination and implementation of the practices, standards, and codes developed by the Technology Administration. Directs the Secretary to designate a small business advocate within the Commerce Department to: (1) increase the participation of small business concerns; and (2) establish guidelines for a small business program under this Act. Directs the Secretary to establish a State and Industry Task Force to highlight areas where the Federal Government can help States to provide a complementary research and development environment.

Save Our Waters From Sewage Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 20 November 2004

Save Our Waters From Sewage Act of 2004 - Prohibits the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, in administering the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit program, from promulgating regulations or issuing guidance authorizing a publicly-owned treatment works to divert flows to bypass a portion of its treatment facility. Creates an exception for situations where the bypass is unavoidable to prevent loss of life, personal injury, or severe property damage.

Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Amendments Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 19 November 2004

Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Amendments Act of 2004 - Amends the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Act of 1998 to remove the President's authority to disestablish the Interagency Task Force on Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia. Requires the Task Force to consult with specified entities with expertise in coastal zone science and management. Directs the President to submit to Congress a report describing and evaluating the effectiveness of measures to protect the environment and public health from the impacts of harmful algal blooms. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to provide for local and regional scientific assessments of hypoxia and harmful algal blooms, as requested by States, Indian tribes, and local governments, or for affected areas as identified by the Secretary. Directs the Task Force to submit to Congress: (1) various scientific assessments; and (2) a plan for a national research program to develop and demonstrate prevention, control, and mitigation methods to reduce the impacts of harmful algal blooms on coastal ecosystems (including the Great Lakes), public health, and the economy. Authorizes the Secretary to make available to the University of Miami real property under the administrative jurisdiction of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on Virginia Key, Florida, for development by the University of a Marine Life Science Center. Authorizes the Secretary to convey to the Government of Mexico the NOAA vessel WHITING.

Asia Freedom Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 19 November 2004

Asia Freedom Act of 2004 - Authorizes the President to provide assistance to North and South East Asia (as defined by this Act) for: (1) humanitarian needs; (2) democracy, human rights, and the rule of law; (3) independent media; (4) free market systems; (5) security; (6) social programs; (7) environment; (8) political opposition; (9) parliamentary exchanges; and (10) migration. Sets forth specified funding authorities, including funding for: (1) security assistance; (2) an institute for reform in Asia; (3) law enforcement; (4) promotion of competitive elections; (5) political transitions; and (6) Taiwan and the Republic of Korea. Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to deny entry visas to public or private individuals who have impeded human rights, the rule of law, and economic freedom in North and South East Asia. Directs the Secretary of State to maintain a database of individuals who may be denied entry. Expresses the sense of Congress that any democracy fund established by the United Nations (UN) in response to the September 21, 2004, speech by President George W. Bush to the UN General Assembly should be known as the ``Daw Aung San Suu Kyi Democracy Fund."

To amend title 23, United States Code, relating to high occupancy vehicle lanes.

United States · United States Congress · 19 November 2004

Amends the Federal Aid Highways program to require a State agency that has jurisdiction over the operation of a HOV facility to establish the occupancy requirements of vehicles operating on the facility. Requires such agency to permit motorcycles and bicycles to use the HOV facility. Permits a State agency to restrict use of the HOV facility by motorcycles or bicycles (or both) if it certifies to the Secretary of Transportation that such use would create a safety hazard. Prescribes guidelines under which a State agency may permit use of an HOV facility by: (1) public transportation vehicles and high occupancy toll vehicles; and (2) inherently low-emission vehicles and other low emission and energy-efficient vehicles. Permits tolls to be charged on a HOV facility on the Interstate System. Requires a State agency that allows low-emission and energy-efficient vehicles to use a HOV facility to certify to the Secretary that it will establish: (1) a continuous monitoring, assessment, and reporting program regarding the impacts such vehicles may have on the operation of the facility and adjacent highways; and (2) an enforcement program that ensures the facility is operated in accordance with this Act. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection to issue a final rule establishing certification requirements for low emission and energy-efficient vehicles.

Verwendung von lebenden Enten bei Jagdprüfungen

Austria · National Council · 18 November 2004

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Kai Jan Krainer, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend Verwendung von lebenden Enten bei Jagdprüfungen

"bleifreie Jagd"

Austria · National Council · 18 November 2004

Schriftliche Anfrage der Abgeordneten Kai Jan Krainer, Kolleginnen und Kollegen an den Bundesminister für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft betreffend "bleifreie Jagd"

190 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason a tender has only recently issued for the provision of software assurance and system testing services for electronic voting; and his views on whether such testing should have been carried out prior to the purchase of the equipment. [29642/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 November 2004

190 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason a tender has only recently issued for the provision of software assurance and system testing services for electronic voting; and his views on whether such testing should have been carried out prior to the purchase of the equipment. [29642/04]

189 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the Commission on Electronic Voting intends to release the results of its initial testing of the equipment acquired by the State for the purposes of electronic voting, in view of the fact that the legal impediments to doing so were removed by the Government in May 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29641/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 November 2004

189 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the Commission on Electronic Voting intends to release the results of its initial testing of the equipment acquired by the State for the purposes of electronic voting, in view of the fact that the legal impediments to doing so were removed by the Government in May 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29641/04]

188 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when sufficient funds will be made available to Kildare County Council to facilitate the restoration of disabled persons grants which have been suspended due to lack of finance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29637/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 November 2004

188 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when sufficient funds will be made available to Kildare County Council to facilitate the restoration of disabled persons grants which have been suspended due to lack of finance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29637/04]

187 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the support available towards the cost of the installation of heating in the homes of local authority tenants and pensioners in view of the fact that such costs may now include special ESB network service charges of €800 for electricity connection. [29511/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 November 2004

187 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the support available towards the cost of the installation of heating in the homes of local authority tenants and pensioners in view of the fact that such costs may now include special ESB network service charges of €800 for electricity connection. [29511/04]

186 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the upgrade of a sewerage scheme (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will receive the necessary approval; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29510/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 November 2004

186 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the upgrade of a sewerage scheme (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will receive the necessary approval; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29510/04]

185 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if an application for a heritage grant was made by a school (details supplied) in Dublin 7; the reason no funding was made available; and if this matter will be further considered in the context of a new application. [29567/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 November 2004

185 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if an application for a heritage grant was made by a school (details supplied) in Dublin 7; the reason no funding was made available; and if this matter will be further considered in the context of a new application. [29567/04]

151 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of participants in the original REP scheme; the number currently in the scheme; the number of participants who are required to make refunds payments to her Department for whatever reason; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29619/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 November 2004

151 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of participants in the original REP scheme; the number currently in the scheme; the number of participants who are required to make refunds payments to her Department for whatever reason; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29619/04]

59 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the discussions she has had with the European Commission and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government regarding a derogation under the nitrates directive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29192/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 November 2004

59 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the discussions she has had with the European Commission and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government regarding a derogation under the nitrates directive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29192/04]

57 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food her estimates of the likely take-up of the REP 3 scheme; if she has satisfied herself with this number; the length of time into the future the REP scheme is likely to continue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29321/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 November 2004

57 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food her estimates of the likely take-up of the REP 3 scheme; if she has satisfied herself with this number; the length of time into the future the REP scheme is likely to continue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29321/04]

10 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she has a policy to promote the establishment of farmers’ markets and if she is liaising with the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in view of the important roles which local authorities can play in supporting local development of agriculture. [29375/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 18 November 2004

10 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she has a policy to promote the establishment of farmers’ markets and if she is liaising with the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in view of the important roles which local authorities can play in supporting local development of agriculture. [29375/04]

A bill entitled the "Hybrid HOV Access Act".

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2004

Amends the Federal Aid Highways program to require a State agency with jurisdiction over the operation of a HOV facility to establish the occupancy requirements of vehicles operating on the facility. Requires such agency to permit motorcycles and bicycles to use the HOV facility. Permits a State agency to restrict use of the HOV facility by motorcycles or bicycles (or both) if it certifies to the Secretary of Transportation that such use would create a safety hazard. Prescribes guidelines under which a State agency may permit use of an HOV facility by: (1) public transportation vehicles and high occupancy toll vehicles; (2) inherently low-emission vehicles and low emission and energy-efficient vehicles; and (3) advanced lean burn technology vehicles. Permits tolls to be charged on a HOV facility on the Interstate System. Requires a State agency that allows low-emission and energy-efficient vehicles to use a HOV facility to certify to the Secretary that it will establish: (1) a continuous monitoring, assessment, and reporting program regarding the impacts such vehicles may have on the operation of the facility and adjacent highways; and (2) an enforcement program that ensures the facility is operated in accordance with this Act. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection to issue a final rule establishing certification requirements for low emission and energy-efficient vehicles and for advanced lean burn technology vehicles.

A concurrent resolution commending the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and its employees for its dedication and hard work during Hurricanes Charley, Frances, Ivan, and Jeanne.

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2004

Declares that Congress commends the employees of the National Weather Service for their extraordinary dedication and hard work during Hurricanes Charley, Frances, Ivan, and Jeanne, especially: (1) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Tropical Prediction Center/National Hurricane Center, Hydrometeorological Prediction Center, and National Data Buoy Center; (2) the NOAA Aircraft Operations Center at MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa, Florida; (3) the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron of the 403rd Wing of the Air Force Reserve Command at Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, Mississippi; (4) the Hurricane Liaison Team; (5) the National Ocean Service; and (6) the National Environmental Satellite Data and Information Service. Declares that Congress commends the Southern, Eastern, and Central Region Weather Forecast Offices of San Juan, Miami, Tampa Bay, Key West, Melbourne, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Atlanta, Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, Morristown, Charleston, Morehead City, Wilmington, Wakefield, Taunton, Lake Charles, New Orleans, Jackson, Nashville, and Houston for their extraordinary dedication and hard work during such Hurricanes. Declares that Congress: (1) commends the employees of the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research, especially the Hurricane Research Division; (2) thanks the commercial and media meteorologists for their contributions in disseminating the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts and warnings to the public; and (3) expresses its support for the ongoing hard work and dedication of all who provide accurate and timely hurricane forecasts.

Wauconda Technical and Environmental Remediation Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2004

Wauconda Technical and Environmental Remediation Act of 2004 - Requires the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) provide bottled water to individuals living within a 1.5-mile radius of the Wauconda Sand and Gravel Superfund site in Lake County, Illinois (Wauconda residents) who are served by residential wells with any contamination of vinyl chloride; and (2) increase testing and monitoring of such wells. States that nothing in this Act may be construed to relieve the Administrator, other Federal agency heads, or potentially liable parties of legal liability with respect to site cleanup. Directs the Administrator to: (1) study possible long-term solutions to remediate the site and provide a clean drinking water source for Wauconda residents; and (2) recommend and implement a long-term solution to provide a clean drinking water source for such residents. Requires the Administrator to work with the heads of other appropriate Federal and State agencies to seek a comprehensive resolution to the short- and long-term environmental and health problems related to the site.

Hybrid HOV Access Act of 2004

United States · United States Congress · 18 November 2004

Hybrid HOV Access Act of 2004 - Amends the Federal Aid Highways program to require a State agency that has jurisdiction over the operation of a HOV facility to establish the occupancy requirements of vehicles operating on the facility. Requires such agency to permit motorcycles and bicycles to use the HOV facility. Permits a State agency to restrict use of the HOV facility by motorcycles or bicycles (or both) if it certifies to the Secretary of Transportation that such use would create a safety hazard. Prescribes guidelines under which a State agency may permit use of an HOV facility by: (1) public transportation vehicles and high occupancy toll vehicles; (2) inherently low-emission vehicles and low emission and energy-efficient vehicles; and (3) advanced lean burn technology vehicles. Permits tolls to be charged on a HOV facility on the Interstate System. Requires a State agency that allows low-emission and energy-efficient vehicles to use a HOV facility to certify to the Secretary that it will establish: (1) a continuous monitoring, assessment, and reporting program regarding the impacts such vehicles may have on the operation of the facility and adjacent highways; and (2) an enforcement program that ensures the facility is operated in accordance with this Act. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection to issue: (1) a final rule establishing certification requirements for low emission and energy-efficient vehicles and advanced lean burn technology vehicles; and (2) guidance on methods for determining whether a vehicle meets the fuel efficiency standards required to qualify as a hybrid vehicle.

Judgment of the Court of First Instance (Fourth Chamber, extended composition) of 18 November 2004.#Ferriere Nord SpA v Commission of the European Communities.#State aid - Community guidelines on State aid for environmental protection - Steel undertaking - Products coming under the EC Treaty - Approved aid scheme - New aid - Initiation of the formal procedure - Time-limits - Rights of the defence - Legitimate expectation - Statement of reasons - Applicability ratione tempore of the Community guidelines - Environmental objective of the investment.#Case T-176/01.

European Union · Court of Justice of the European Union · 18 November 2004

683 Mr. Ó Fearghail asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the prospects for moderation in house price inflation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29420/04]

Ireland · Dáil Éireann · 17 November 2004

683 Mr. Ó Fearghail asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the prospects for moderation in house price inflation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29420/04]