RTE Share Option Scheme.

14. Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the process which will be used to value the RTÉ network upon the establishment of Digico; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19127/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 36 together. An inter-departmental project management group, chaired by my Department was established by Government last year to oversee the implementation of the Government’s decision to establish a new commercial entity, in which RTÉ will be a minority shareholder, which will be responsible for the provision of terrestrial transmission and technical facilities to broadcasters in the future. The project management group is being assisted in this task by a consortium of advisers headed by AIB Corporate Finance. One of the issues on which the project management group requires the assistance of the advisers is the manner in which the transaction to establish the new entity is to be structured. The advisers are currently exploring a range of possibilities in this regard with a view to making a recommendation to the project management group. How fair value is to be attributed to the existing RTÉ Transmission Network will be considered as an integral part of that process.

I understand that negotiations are at present ongoing between RTÉ and representatives of RTÉ’s Network Employees in relation to their proposed transfer to the new DTT transmission entity. As these negotiations are ongoing and are properly a matter between the employees and their employer, I do not believe that it would be helpful for me to comment further at this stage in relation to the question of an employee share option.

Heritage Buildings.

15. Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the financial incentives, if any, for owners of heritage property; the total number of people who have availed of these financial benefits; if he will give a list of the heritage properties in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19123/99]

113. Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the support and funds, if any, available for the promotion and preservation of houses or grounds which may have heritage, cultural or other such aspects; the number of these houses or grounds which avail of these supports and funds; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19302/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): I propose taking Questions Nos. 15 and 113 together. I have not got the information requested by the Deputy as I am not directly responsible for any such schemes. My colleague, the Minister for Finance, is responsible for tax incentives under the finance Acts affecting heritage buildings. This year, my colleague, the Minister for the Environment and Local Government, introduced a grant scheme affecting works to buildings of architectural significance. This scheme is administered through the local authorities. Finally, the Heritage Council has authority to provide financial support for heritage properties. The council administers, such support as an independent statutory authority.

Great Blasket Island.

16. D'fhiafraigh Mr. Higgins (Dublin West) den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán cén polasaí atá aici maidir le páirc stairiúil náisiúnta a chruthú ar an mBlascaod Mór. [19124/99]

33. Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the steps, if any, she intends to take arising from the recent Supreme Court decision which found An Blascaod Mór National Historic Park Bill, 1989, to be unconstitutional; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19135/99]

52. D'fhiafraigh Mr. Higgins (Dublin West) den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán cad iad na céimeanna a thógfaidh sí chun an Blascaod Mór a chothú mar ionad cultúir, oideachais agus oidhreachta; agus conas a chaomhnófar sainghné thraidisiúnta an oiléain. [19125/99] I propose to take Questions Nos. 16, 33 and 52 together.

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): I propose taking Questions Nos. 16 , 33, and 52 together.

The Deputies will be aware that the proposed national historic park on the Great Blasket Island was conditional on the State having ownership of the properties on the island and that this was anticipated by the provisions of An Blascaod Mór National Historic Park Act, 1989. Since that Act’s enactment, a number of attempts were made to reach agreement with the representatives of An Blascaod Mór Teoranta with a view to purchasing the holdings held by the company. Unfortunately, it did not prove possible to reach agreement on a purchase price.

The Deputies will be further aware that in July 1999 the Supreme Court upheld a decision of the High Court of February 1998 which declared the 1989 Act to be unconstitutional. The outcome of the Supreme Court decision is that the Act has been struck down in its entirety.

My Department has, however, continued to actively promote the culture and heritage of An Blascaod Mór, most notably through the exhibition and the programme of activities in the state of the art visitor centre, Ionad an Bhlascaoid Mhóir, which is in place since 1994. A number of the Deputies will have experienced or heard of the highly successful annual Ceiliúradh an Bhlascaoid which is held to celebrate the culture and literature of the islands and which attracts significant numbers each year. Overall visitor numbers to Ionad an Bhlascaoid Mhóir each year now stands at around 40,000 and I am happy that the Ionad is playing a hugely important part in promoting the culture, heritage and educational significance of the island while at the same time contributing to the economic and social development of the wider Corca Dhuibhne area.

I do take the view that the provisions of the National Monuments Acts 1930-94 and of the Wildlife Act, 1976, provide the means by which the heritage of the island can be well protected. In this regard, the national monuments Acts were invoked in 1987 to designate the houses of Peig Sayers, Tomás Ó Criomhtain and Muiris Ó Súileabháin as national monuments. I welcome the conservation work which was carried out to the house of Peig Sayers during the past summer by its owner An Blascaod Mór Teoranta, in consultation with my Department, as provided for by the national monuments Acts. I can further inform the Deputies that I am making arrangements to have essential conservation works carried out to the building known as An Dáil which is owned by the State.

I know that the Deputies will appreciate that the circumstances pertaining today in relation to the Great Blasket Island are greatly different from those in 1989 and that a different response may now be called for. Such response will have to acknowledge and promote the unique cultural, heritage and educational importance of the literary tradition of the Island. I will also continue to acknowledge and promote this tradition by encouraging the maximum possible use of Ionad an Bhlascaoid Mhóir and by utilising the statutory powers assigned to me in relation to the built and natural heritage of the island.

I propose further to put the matter of future policy in relation to the island formally to the Government, taking account of the Supreme Court decision and other developments since 1989. Following consideration by the Government, I expect to be in a position to make a formal announcement in the matter.

Future Role of Asgard.

17. Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she has concluded her discussion with the Heritage Council on the future role for the Asgard; the recommendations, if any, of the working group established in February 1999 to produce recommendations for the future of this vessel; if her attention has been drawn to the views of the Department of Defence in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17289/99]

47. Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the proposals, if any, she has in relation to the future of the Asgard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19142/99]I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 47 together.

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 47 together. I refer the Deputies to my replies to Questions Nos. 705, 710, 716, 720 and 721 of 29 Meán Fómhair last and to today’s Priority Question on this topic.

I am aware of the views of the Minister for Defence who, I should emphasise, is the actual owner of the Asgard. My role in this matter is strictly to deal with the application for a licence to alter it under the national monuments Acts and the future of the vessel is a matter for the owner when I have arrived at a considered decision in the case.

As I have indicated in my earlier reply today, I will now be considering in detail the application for a licence to alter the Asgard from the ARP in the light of the expert advice, and information available to me and the representations made on this matter, including the views of my Cabinet colleagues, and any other consultation I deem necessary.

National Museum.

18. Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the progress, if any, which has been made with regard to his discussions with the National Museum regarding the extension of opening hours particularly with a view to having museum premises open on bank holiday Mondays; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19129/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): As I indicated in my reply to Question No. 14 on 29 Aibreán 1999 the management of the National Museum has had discussions with the relevant staff interests and further discussions are taking place with the view to reaching agreement on extending opening hours. However, while the matter is still under active consideration the Deputy will appreciate that there are human resource and financial implications inherent in such a move.

At present, the premises of the National Museum of Ireland at Kildare Street, Merrion Street and Collins Barracks are open to the public each week between 10.00 a.m. and 5.00 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday and between 2.00 p.m. and 5.00 p.m. on Sundays. I cannot give any indication at this stage as to when it might be possible to improve the opening hours, particularly on bank holiday Mondays.

Galway Museum.

19. Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the position in relation to Galway Corporation's application for additional funding for Galway Museum; and the amount of capital funding allocated to Galway city for the arts since June 1997. [19143/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): A sum of £500,000 has been earmarked by my Department towards the cost of the development of the proposed Galway Civic Museum. My Department has no record of any application from Galway Corporation seeking to increase this amount.

The main vehicle for the capital funding of arts projects by my Department is the cultural development incentives scheme (CDIS) and as the Deputy will be aware all funding which was available under the CDIS was allocated prior to my becoming Minister for Arts, Hertiage, Gaeltacht and the Islands in June 1997.

National Library Director.

20. Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the position regarding the filling of the position of Director of the National Library on a full-time basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19130/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): The Civil Service and Local Appointments Commission has been asked to recruit a director for the National Library and the selection process is currently in progress.

Teoranta na Gaeltachta.

21. D'fhiafraigh Proinsias De Rossa den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán cén dul chun cinn atá déanta aici ar theorainn na Gaeltachta a thabhairt suas chun dáta; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [19136/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): Tá breithniú leanúnach á dhéanamh agam ar na bealaí is fearr chun an Ghaeilge a chaomhnú agus a chur chun cinn sa Ghaeltacht. Tá Coiste bunaithe agam le fíordhéanaí, Coiste Comhairleach na nÓg, le comhairle a tabhairt dom maidir le todhchaí na Gaeltachta. Chomh maith le sin d’iarr mé ar an Lár-Oifig Staidrimh mionanailís a dhéanamh ar phatrúin teangeolaíochta na tíre, an Ghaeltacht san áireamh, bunaithe ar thorthaí Daonáirimh 1996. Úsáidfear an t-eolas sin chun críche bheartas teanga, ar a n-áirítear breithniú a dhéanamh ar na limistéir Ghaeltachta.

Inland Waterways.

22. Mr. Dukes asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the proposal, if any, she has for the development of inland waterways; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19157/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): One of the key aims of my Department is the development of the leisure, amenity and tourism potential of inland waterways. The programme of restoration and development of waterways under my control and funded through the EU Operational Programme for Tourism,1994-99 is coming to a close. Under that programme, £19.7 million will have been invested in the waterways is that period with projects ranging from continuing restoration and development of the Royal and Grand Canals and extension of navigation on the Shannon along with the provision of new and enlarged facilities along the river.

I hope to be able to at least maintain this level of activity in the years ahead. My Department is in the process of preparing a National Heritage Plan which will include the future of the waterways and I hope to publish this plan later next year. In addition, the National Development Plan which will include the financial resources that can be allocated for waterways development over the next seven years is being finalised and I will be in a position to outline the major projects to be undertaken during this period when the plan is agreed and published.

I must also mention, however, that the British-Irish Agreement Act, 1999, passed earlier this year by both Houses of the Oireachtas but yet to be brought into force pending the setting up of the Northern Ireland Executive, provides for the establishment of Waterways Ireland, a North-South implementation body for inland waterways. Waterways Ireland will have the functions of management, maintenance, development and restoration of the inland navigable waterway system throughout this island, principally for recreational purposes. When the body comes into being, I will have discussions with my counterpart in Northern Ireland regarding inland waterways and the programme to be pursued by Waterways Ireland and, of course, these discussions will be continuous in the context of the proposed North-South Ministerial Council.

23. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the timescale for the expenditure of the funds allocated by the previous Government for work on the Eglinton Canal, Galway; if the previous dates given have been abandoned; the reason for any such development; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19145/99]

45. Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the position in relation to the works on the Eglington Canal and Parkavera Lock for which money was allocated before she took office; if the timescale announced by the Minister for State will be met; and the date for the commencement and completion of the work. [18691/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): I propose to take Questions Nos. 23 and 45 together. I understand that the Lough Corrib Navigation Trustees who have responsibility for this waterway applied for planning permission for the works on 17 September last. On receipt of the permission and subject to any conditions attached to it being reasonable, arrangements will be made to have the works carried out as early as possible.

Designated Areas.

24. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the status of negotiations with land owners of designated callows and eskers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19122/99]

50. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the reason for the delay in providing compensation to landowners of callows and turloughs which have been designated by her Department; the plans, if any, she has to approve this compensation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19119/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): I propose to take Questions Nos. 24 and 50 together. I wish to remind the Deputy that my Department is committed to paying full compensation for all income losses arising out of the designation of callows and turloughs as special areas of conservation and-or special protection areas. No restrictions have yet been placed by my Department on farmers in these areas and consequently no losses have arisen and therefore no compensation is currently due.

Officials of Dúchas, the heritage service of my Department, and of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development have had meetings with farmers representatives on the management prescriptions necessary to ensure the conservation of habitats and species in callows and other habitat types. Prescriptions have already been agreed for the Burren, blanket bogs, heaths, upland grasslands, sand dunes and machair. The discussions relating to callows are nearing completion and , at the behest of the landowners representatives, both Departments have engaged appropriate farming and ecological consultants to prepare pilot farm plans for these areas and to assess any compensation due.

When those plans are completed and any income losses arising assessed additional consultation with landowner representatives will be arranged. The completion of matters relating to callows will enable both Departments to commence discussions with farmers’ representatives on other habitats, including turloughs.

Offshore Islands.

25. Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if the Government remains committed to the introduction of an islander allowance; and the tax and social welfare proposals in this regard. [19117/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage,Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera):I wish to refer the Deputy to Dáil questions Nos. 35 and 13 of 3 Bealtaine 1999. I indicated to the House then that as a budgetary issue I will be pressing that a final decision be made with regard to a special island allowance in the context of the next budget.

Wildlife Parks.

26. Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the responsibility, if any, she has in relation to the wildlife park at Irishtown by Sandymount strand; the way in which she will develop this amenity; the expenditure allocated to its upkeep in 1999; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19152/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): I have no responsibility for Irishtown Nature Park which is managed by Dublin Corporation.

Grant Payments.

27. Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if her Department has received a submission from the Irish Seal and Dolphin Sanctuary requesting grant aid to develop a seven acre coastal site; and, if so, her response to this request. [18693/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): I refer the Deputy to my reply to questions Nos. 213 and 215 of 6 Deireach Fómhair 1999.

Scéim Labhairt Na Gaeilge.

28. D'fhiafraigh Mr. Stanton den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán an bhfuil sé i gceist aici meadú sa deontas Gaeilge i leith scoláirí ag freastal ar choláistí samhraidh a thabhairt isteach; cé méid a caitheadh ar an scéim seo anuraidh; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [19151/99]

41. D'fhiafraigh Mr. McCormack den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán cé méad iarratas a fuair sí ó mhná tí do scéim labhairt na Gaeilge i 1998 agus 1999 i leith scoláirí ag freastal ar Choláiste Samhraidh; an bhfuil sí sásta leis an scéim mar atá faoi láthair; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [19147/99]I propose to take Questions Nos. 28 and 41 together.

Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Heritage,Gaeltacht and the Islands (Éamon Ó Cuív): Tógfaidh mé Ceisteanna Uimh. 28 agus Uimh. 41 le chéile. Táim ag glacadh leis gur Scéim na bhFoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge atá i gceist ag an Teachta. D’íoc mo Roinnse £2.074m faoi Scéim na bhFoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge i 1998. Choinnigh 730 teaghlaigh aitheanta sa Ghaeltacht foghlaimeoirí ar iostas faoin Scéim i 1998 agus meastar go mbeidh thart ar an líon céanna teaghlaigh i gceist i mbliana. Cé go bhfuiltear sásta go ginearálta leis an Scéim, cuirfear go mór le héifeacht na gColáistí nuair a chuirfear moltaí an Ghrúpa a rinne athbhreithniú ar na coinníollacha ginearálta a bhaineann leis na Coláistí Gaeilge Samhraidh i bhfeidhm. Tá súil agam cinnithe faoi na moltaí sin a dhéanamh go luath i gcomhairle leis an Roinn Oideachais agus Eolaíochta.

Méadaíodh an deontas laethúil a íoctar le teaghlaigh aitheanta faoin Scéim anuraidh agus níl aon chinneadh déanta maidir le méadú eile.

Uiscebhealaí Intíre.

29. D'fhiafraigh Mr. Perry den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán cé na moltaí atá aici chun oidhreacht, tionscail agus éiceolaíocht na n-uiscebhealaí intíre a chaomhnú. [19150/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): Is eol don Teachta, ní foláir, go bhfuil an cuspóir sonrach seo a leanas leagtha síos sa Ráiteas Straitéise 1998-2000 de chuid mo Roinne-se:

"Polasaí agus straitéis a fhorbairt chun na huiscebhealaí intíre, a seandálaíocht tionsclaíoch agus a n-oidhreacht nádúrtha a athchóiriú agus a chosaint agus na deiseanna caithimh aimsire, taitneamhachta agus turasóireachta a bhaineann leo a fhorbairt."

Is féidir liom a dheimhniú don Teachta go dtugtar aird chuí ar chur i bhfeidhm an chuspóra sin sna gníomhaíochtaí a bhíonn idir lámha ag Rannán Uiscebhealaí mo Roinne-se. Ina thaobh sin de, dírím aird an Teachta ar an bhfreagra a thug mé inniu ar Cheist Dála Uimh 22.

Architectural Heritage.

30. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she has made any further decision on the issue of the marble court for real tennis at Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2; her views on whether this should be restored and renovated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19159/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): An Bord Pleánala made an order on 9 June 1999 confirming an earlier decision of Dublin Corporation to grant planning permission for the conversion of the former gymnasium building within the Earlsfort Terrace site, for use as a recital hall, by the National Concert Hall. I am advised that the Irish Real Tennis Association has lodged an application in the High Court for a judical review of the decision of An Bord Pleánala. Pending the outcome of these proceedings, the Deputy will appreciate it would be inappropriate for me to comment on the matter.

Grant Payments.

31. D'fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán an bhfuil sé ar intinn aici aon leasú a dhéanamh ar na rialacha a bhaineann le deontais tithíochta Gaeltachta. [19120/99]

39. D'fhiafraigh Mr. Ferris den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán cad iad na deacrachtaí atá ag cur moille ar fhoilsiú Bhille na Tithíochta sa Ghealtacht (Leasú) atá geallta i gclár an Rialtais; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [19137/99]I propose to take Questions Nos. 31 and 39 together.

Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Éamon Ó Cuív): Tógfaidh mé Ceisteanna Uimhir 31 agus Uimhir 39 le chéile.

Cheadaigh an Rialtas Scéim Bhille chun Achtanna na dTithe (Gaeltacht) a leasú, ar 8 Meán Fómhair 1999 agus tá an Bille sin a dhréachtú anois. Ní léir dom go raibh aon deacracht ná moill mhór ar an ngnó go nuige seo.

Tá roinnt leasuithe ar choinníollacha Scéim Deontais Tithíochta na Roinne beartaithe sa Scéim Bhille. Cuirfidh na leasuithe sin le héifeacht na Scéime agus táim cinnte go mbainfidh muintir na Gaeltachta tairbhe níos fearr aisti dá mbarr.

Company Location.

32. D'fhiafraigh Mr. G. Reynolds den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán cén cinneadh atá déanta faoi lonnú an chomhlachta Mhalaeisiaigh (sonraí tugtha) ar an gClochán Liath i dTír Chonaill; agus an ndéanfaidh sé raiteas ina thaobh. [19146/99]

Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Éamon Ó Cuív): Dírím aird an Teachta ar an bhfreagra a thug mé ar Cheist Uimh 316 den 16 Feabhra 1999 uaidh. Ceadaíodh an tionscadal seo sa bhliain 1997. Is gnó d’Údarás na Gaeltachta agus do na príomhaithe an togra a chur i bhfeidhm. Tuigtear dom gur chuir an ghéarchéim gnó agus airgeadais in Oirdheisceart na hÁise moill ar chúrsaí go dtí tús na bliana seo, go bhfuil céimeanna tábhachtacha glactha ó shin chun an gnó a thosú, go bhfuil an togra á phlé go gníomhach idir na príomhaithe agus an tÚdarás faoi láthair agus go bhfuil i gceist dul ar aghaidh leis an ngnó a bhunú mar a bhí beartaithe ó thús.

EU Funding.

34. Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the action, if any, she has taken or intends to take arising from the warning issued by the EU Commission in July 1999 that it may not be able to approve any Irish Structural or Cohesion Funding projects in 2000 until Ireland complies with key wildlife conservation obligations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19133/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): Dúchas, the Heritage Service of my Department, has set out a programme for transmitting special areas of conservation-SACs - required under the EU Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC, to the EU Commission. This programme will ensure that all terrestrial sites are transmitted to the Commission by the end of this year and that marine sites are transmitted by the end of April 2000.

The current position is that Dúchas has formally transmitted 145 sites, mainly priority habitat type sites, to the Commission; an additional 52 sites are under appeal and will be formally transmitted as soon as all objections, relating to privately owned lands included in the sites, have completed the appeals process.

In August last, Dúchas advertised an additional 128 sites and these will be transmitted as soon as the objections/appeals procedures are completed. I anticipate that the public advertisement of marine sites will occur towards the end of the year. It should be noted that the European Communities (Natural Habitat) Regulations, 1997, provide full protection to these sites once they have been advertised.

Millennium Projects.

35. D'fhiafraigh Mr. D. Carey den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán cé na moltaí atá aici chun an tuarascáil ‘I dTreo 2000’ a chomhlíonadh

Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Éamon Ó Cuív): Dírím aird an Teachta ar an bhfreagra a thug mé ar Cheist uimh 162 den 3 Nollaig 1998 inar thagair mé do na moltaí éagsúla sa Tuarascáil "Treo 2000" agus inar léirigh mé mo dhearcadh futhu.

Architectural Heritage.

37. Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the progress made on the implementation of the Architectural Heritage (National Inventory) and Historic Monuments (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1999; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19170/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): The Architectural Heritage (National Inventory) and Historic Monuments (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1999 places the survey work of the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage - NIAH - on a statutory footing.

Before this Government took up office no surveys under the NIAH had been issued. Since then ten town surveys have been published and a further seven have issued in draft form. One interim county survey has also been published. The Government is committed to completing interim county surveys within the next two years and the full NIAH within a period of 12 years.

Under the new Act, I may determine the form or content of the inventory and may take other steps in relation to the provision of information. I will be doing this in the near future and these steps will reflect the methodology and arrangements at present in use for the NIAH.

Millennium Projects.

38. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the way in which she intends to assist in the promotion of Irish art and culture for the millennium; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19179/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): As I indicated in a reply to a previous question on this matter in February last, the Taoiseach has already established a national millennium committee under the chairmanship of the Minister of State, Deputy Brennan, and this committee's function is to advise the Government on appropriate projects and initiatives to celebrate the millennium.

For my own part I have provided financial support to a project, led by Poetry Ireland, for the publication of an anthology of Irish poetry from the 20th century. I believe that it is an appropriate cultural project to celebrate the literary achievements of the 20th century and will highlight the viality and the continued relevance of Irish poetry as we approach the beginning of a new millennium. I have also launched the "Ceoil Reoite: Frozen Music" millennium project which involves the commissioning of a number of distinguished Irish musicians to compose a signature tune for a selected list of national monuments and historic properties. This has been a very successful initiative with ten commissions completed to date.

Background work has now been done in the reports of the interdepartmental working group and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama on the proposed academy for the performing arts. Following on from this, I and my colleague the Minister for Education and Science will bring forward definitive proposals for the establishment of an Irish Academy for the Performing Arts in the millennium year. The creation of this new institution will have the most profound and beneficial effects on the teaching and performance of the performing arts across manny strata of society here.

I am advised that a number of programmes to mark the millennium are being independently planned by the various cultural institutions which come within the remit of my Department. The National Museum is planning to hold a special exhibition at one of its venues in the year 2000 to celebrate the millennium. The details of this exhibition are still being planned. The National Library plans to mount an exhibition in Dublin, beginning at the end of this year, on the subject of "The Turn of the Century and the New Millennium". The National Archives is planning the publication of a CD-ROM and an exhibition based on 1,000 of the most important and visually attractive documents in its collections.

A significant development will be the transfer of the magnificent Chester Beatty Library and Museum of Oriental Art from its present location in Shrewsbury Road to its newly refurbished city centre premises at Dublin Castle. This will enable many items previously unseen to be displayed in an appropriate setting and to be enjoyed by a much wider audience than heretofore. The library is planning in its new home a special exhibition of its most important cultural material which represents many cultures and societies, including very early manuscripts. In addition, the library is in negotiation with museums in preparation for a special millennium exhibition on the origins of the Gospel and other special events to mark this important year.

The Irish Museum of Modern Art has just opened an exhibition in Boston of artworks by 13 Irish artists - Irish Art Now, covering art of the 1990s. This exhibition is planned to tour several other galleries inthe US and Canada throughout the year 2000 - promoting new perceptions of Irish art and artists. A major exhibition - Fifty Years of Irish Art - is planned to open in the autumn of 2000, selected by five commentators on art, covering the second half of the 20th century in Irish art decade by decade. The exhibition will put contemporary practice of the 1990s in the context of works of art since the 1950s. Full programmes of seminars, discussions, publications, promotional and marketing campaigns will accompany all the exhibitions and projects and will be distributed nationally and internationally. A new series of displays from the collection is also planned to be shown from spring 2000 onwards and the majority of artworks will be from Irish artists.

The National Concert Hall - NCH - is planning to mark the millennium with a major programme of events featuring outstanding international artists and visiting orchestras throughout the year 2000 season. The NCH will continue its highly successful education and outreach programmes, including the series of "In Tune" residencies in schools throughout the country which collaborates closely with Irish composers and musicians. A new initiative is being planned to hold a festival of contemporary music which will celebrate the work of Irish composers and a number of new works will be specially commissioned for this festival.

The National Gallery proposes to mount an exhibition to commemorate George Bernard Shaw to mark his contribution to the work of the National Gallery.

National Heritage.

40. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the degree to which she intends to influence the development of national parks, heritages houses and themes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19180/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): As Minister with primary responsibility in relation to the heritage, I have initiated the preparation of a national heritage plan in line with the commitment in An Action Programme for the Millennium. It is intended that the National Heritage Plan will set out strategies for the protection, conservation, management and presentation of the natural heritage, the architectural and archaeological, moveable and immoveable heritage, the inland waterways of the State, and documentary and archival heritage.

Aspects of the national heritage coming within the scope of the plan will include: (a) natural heritage, including flora and fauna, habitats, geological features and other biodiversity elements, particularly in the context of the proposed National Biodiversity Plan; (b) archaeological heritage, including archaeological sites, monuments, areas, landscapes, artefacts/objects on land and underwater; (c) architectural, artistic and historic heritage (including buildings, structures, parks, gardens and objects of architectural, artistic and historic importance; (d) natural and cultural landscapes; (e) inland waterways; and (f) documentary and archival heritage, including traditional music archives.

The Deputy will appreciate, therefore, that the issues referred to in his question will fall for consideration in the context of the preparation of the National Heritage Plan. It is anticipated that the plan will be published next year.

Corncrake Population.

42. Mr. Dukes asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the corncrake population counted in 1999; if she will report on the corncrake and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19153/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 224 of the 25 Bealtaine 1999. Preliminary figures received from Birdwatch Ireland who operate the corncrake grant scheme with funding from Dúchas. The Heritage Service of my Department and the Royal Society For the Protection of Birds, RSPB, indicate that there were 156 corncrakes, singing males recorded in 1999, an increase of 3 over 1998.

It is my intention to continue funding for the scheme pending increased takeup by the Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development or takeup of the SAC/SPA compensation scheme operated by my Department.

Film Industry Development.

43. Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands her views on the introduction of a levy for the purposes of video rental or cinema viewing in order to support the film industry and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17467/99]

Offshore Islands.

44. Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands her views on whether special capital funding should be available for development projects on islands in coming years; and the proposals, if any, she has in this regard. [19118/99]

Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Éamon Ó Cuív): My Department was assigned responsibility for the offshore islands in July 1997. In 1998 I approved grants of over £4.763 million from subhead W - Islands - and subhead E - Muiroibreacha Gaeltachta - for various capital projects aimed at the economic and social development of the inhabited offshore islands. This included funding of over £1.7 million towards the improvement of landing facilities on five islands off the County Cork coast and expenditure of almost £0.9 million on the continuation of major marine works at Oileán Thoraí, County Donegal. Further major investment on the offshore islands has been sanctioned to date this year, including works on the pier at Leabh Garbh on Árainn Mhór Island, County Donegal, as well as various smaller infrastructural projects on many offshore islands. As the Deputy knows, I obtained an increase of some 30 per cent in funding for the offshore islands for 1999.

As I have already indicated to this House, it is my intention to address the needs of our islands as promised in An Action Programme for the Millennium. In co-operation with the appropriate local authorities', plans are under way to provide improved access facilities for those island communities which do not have adequate access facilities at present. This strategy includes the provision of airstrips on some islands with larger populations. Plans are also being made in conjunction with Mayo County Council for the provision of a cablecar facility between the island of Inishbiggle, County Mayo and the mainland. It is also my intention to continue to fund smaller infrastructural projects on offshore islands.

Seandálaíocht Bhogthailte.

46. D'fhiafraigh Mr. Perry den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán cén dul chun cinn atá déanta sa tsuirbéireacht ar an tseandálaíocht bhogthailte agus na bearta oiriúnacha cosanta a bheidh le glacadh i ndáil leo; agus an inseoidh sí chomh maith cén dáta ar a mbeidh an córas ceadúnaithe tumadóireachta réidh. [19149/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): Faoi Acht na Séadchomharthaí Náisiúnta (Leasú) 1987, tá foráil chun raiceanna stairiúla a chosaint agus a bhuanchoimeád. I 1997, bunaíodh aonad ar leith sa tSeirbhís Séadchomharthaí Náisiúnta agus Sealúchas Stairiúla i mo Roinnse chun suirbhé ar pháipéar a dhéanamh ar na raiceanna stairiúla sin. Tá an obair sin críochnaithe anois. Tá eagarthóireacht á dhéanamh ar fhoilseachán ag eascairt as an suirbhé sin ar chóir a bheith ar fáil an bhliain seo chugainn. Go dtí seo tá breis agus 8000 raic stairiúil aitheanta faoi.

Bainfear úsáid as an suirbhé ar pháipéar seo chun Taifead de Shéadchomharthaí agus Áiteanna a bhunú faoi alt 12 d'Acht na Séadchomharthaí Náisiúnta (Leasú) 1994. I gcás go mbeartaíonn éinne ar obair a dhéanamh ag nó i dtaca le raic stairiúil atá liostáilte ar an taifead sin, beidh ar an duine sin fógra dhá mhí i scríbhinn a thabhairt dom roimh ré.

Tá foráil in Acht na Séadchomharthaí Náisiúnta (Leasú) 1987, le haghaidh céimeanna a ghlacadh chun aon raic stairiúil a chosaint mar gheall ar a tábhacht stairiúil, seandálaíochta nó ealaíonta.

Faoin Acht sin tá ceadúnas ag teastáil le haghaidh tumthaí ag raic atá cosanta (i.e. raic atá breis agus 100 bliain d'aois) nó i limistéar atá faoi réir Ordú Oidhreachta Fo-uisce.

Mar eolas don Teachta eisíodh fiche ceadúnas tumtha go dtí seo i mbliana.

National Parks.

48. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands her definition of a national park; the proposals, if any, she has to increase the number of national parks and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19167/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): There are many definitions of a national park available in an international context including the following concise definition: "National Parks exist to conserve natural plant and animal communities and scenic landscapes which are both extensive and of national importance and, under conditions compatible with that purpose, to enable the public to visit and appreciate them." All of Ireland's national parks comprise lands which have been acquired by the State for the purpose of nature conservation and are established to recognise such State-owned lands as national parks. Successive Governments have accepted the definition of a national park set out by IUCN, the World Conservation Union. The IVth IUCN World Congress on National Parks and Protected Areas defined a protected area as, "An area of land and/or sea especially dedicated to the protection and maintenance of biological diversity, and of natural and associated cultural resources, and managed through legal or other effective means."

There are six national parks in Ireland, one each in Ulster and Leinster and two each in Munster and Connacht. They contain a significant representation of the major natural habitats and species of the country and collectively cover an area of some 60,000 hectares or 150,000 acres. I have no plans at present to increase the number of national parks.

Irish Language.

49. Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the consultations, if any, she has had with the Central Statistics Office with regard to the possibility of obtaining more comprehensive information in the next census of population on attitudes and use of the Irish language and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19141/99]

Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Éamon Ó Cuív): A new question was asked in the 1996 census of population as to frequency of usage of the Irish language by the population of the country, aged 3 years and over. In order to establish a trend it will be necessary that a similar question be asked in future censuses. This question has provided very useful information on language usage patterns.

The Deputy will appreciate that there is a limit to the amount of information that can be sought in a census and in my view another method, such as a comprehensive linguistic survey, is the appropriate way to obtain more comprehensive information on attitudes and usage. As the Deputy is aware, such surveys have been carried out, the latest in 1993.

Architectural Heritage.

51. Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands her views on the recent destruction of a building (details supplied) of architectural importance; the reason her Department failed to have the building saved; and if she will have arrangements made to have legal protection given to such buildings where deemed appropriate. [19158/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): I am sorry to see the demolition of the building in question. The building was of architectural significance and I appealed to the developer not to proceed with the works. My role in relation to the protection of the architectural heritage is, primarily, an advisory one. In this instance the developer had, however, validly received planning permission for the works and, unfortunately, chose to exercise this option.

The Deputy will appreciate that the system of protection for such buildings to date has been unsatisfactory and there have been other examples of the erosion of the architectural heritage of the country. Since coming to office the Government has made substantial progress in redressing the situation. Two pieces of legislation were enacted. One places the national inventory of architectural heritage on a statutory footing. The other, a revision to the Planning Act, introduces more stringent protection to structures of architectural significance. The latter Act comes in to effect on 1 January 2000 and it will lead to a much improved situation.

In addition, the Government has committed resources to my Department to recruit conservation architects and other staff to assist planning authorities in their work and I will be publishing national conservation guidelines for planning authorities in the new year. Further resources are being made available to planning authorities to enable them to recruit conservation officers and to grant aid conservation works.

These initiatives mark a new beginning in strengthening the protection of the architectural heritage so that instances such as the one referred to by the Deputy are less likely to happen in the future. I would stress, however, that my role will be mainly advisory and that protection in the future will still remain within the planning system.

Comhairle Pobail na Rinne.

53. D'fhiafraigh Mr. O'Shea den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán an bhfuil cinneadh déanta aici fós deontas a chur ar fáil maidir le hatógáil Halla Pobail na Rinne; cad é leibhéal an deontais a bheidh i gceist; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [19171/99]

Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Éamon Ó Cuív): Tá an t-iarratas áta faighte ó Chomhairle Pobail na Rinne ar chúnamh chun forbairt a dhéanamh ar an halla pobail á mheas ag mo Roinnse faoi láthair. I dtaca leis sin bhí oifigeach de chuid mo Roinne i dteagmháil leis an gComhairle arís le déanaí maidir le sonraí riachtanacha a sholáthar.

Déanfar an t-iarratas a mheas tuilleadh nuair a bheidh an t-eolas atá iarrtha curtha ar fáil.

Commonage Framework Plans.

54. Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the steps, if any, being taken to deal with the problem of overgrazing and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19131/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): My Department, in co-operation with the Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development has agreed a system for preparing commonage framework plans and for training suitably qualified persons to complete these, and plans are under preparation at present.

Both Departments will shortly approve plans, which will set out appropriate grazing levels for over 40,000 ha. of land. The stocking levels set out in these plans will be put into effect by farmers at the earliest opportunity, taking into account that individual farmers will have to be informed of the impact of the plans on their farms. In the interim the national framework plan requiring a 30 per cent reduction in commonages will continue to apply. I anticipate that plans will be available for all commonages during 2000.

In addition the Department of Agriculture and Food has introduced cross-compliance in respect of headage and ewe premia in these areas and farmers quota rights will be frozen in accordance with the national framework plan or the individual commonage framework plan, as appropriate.

In anticipation of this my Department encouraged farmers to commence reductions in 1998 by introducing a once-off payment to farmers who reduced stock levels in winter; this led to a reduction of over 140,000 head in these areas last winter.

The objective of the commonage framework plans is to ensure that a sustainable level of sheep and lamb production is maintained, in the overgrazed commonages in the future and that damaged vegetation will recover. Compensation through the REPS scheme or an alternative scheme organised by me Department will be paid where farmers have to destock.

Wildlife Protection.

55. Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the progress, if any, which has been made in each of the past three years with regard to protecting endangered wild life species; and the various initiatives, if any, put in place over this period. [19169/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): Dúchas, the Heritage Service of my Department has an ongoing surveying, monitoring , designation and protection programme for the conservation and protection of all wildlife species and in particular, endangered species. It is not possible to detail all the initiatives which have been implemented in the last three years and I propose to confine myself to the principal initiatives put in place during that period.

On the legislative front, the EU habitats directive was transposed into national legislation through the European Communities ( Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997. Earlier this year I enacted the Flora (Protection) Order, 1999, which significantly increased the range of flora species which receive protection under section 21 of the Wildlife Act. On 29 June this year I was particularly delighted to publish the long awaited Wildlife (Amendment) Bill which will, when enacted, dramatically improve the statutory protection regime in place for the conservation of wildlife and their habitats.

A further 24 wetland sites were designated under the Ramsar Convention in 1996. Under the European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997, I have formally transmitted 145 candidate SACs to the EU Commission and have advertised more than 200 other proposed candidate sites. In order to address the overgrazing by sheep, my Department in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development developed a strategy to identify the necessary reductions needed in sheep flocks to eliminate overgrazing . Funding was provided in 1998 which helped facilitate £6 million was provided by my Department towards funding of a fodder scheme and to introduce a 30 per cent stock reduction in designated degraded counties. I am also introducing systems and procedures for the payment of a fair and proper level of compensation to land owners and users who suffer a financial loss as a result of the designation of their lands.

On the monitoring side, after significant preparatory work in 1997, my Department in partnership with Birdwatch Ireland, The Heritage Council and with sponsorship from the ESB, the Irish countryside bird survey was launched in 1998. This major survey will provide a comprehensive framework for the ongoing monitoring of Ireland's "common" breeding birds. It will provide information on changes in populations of a wide range of |reland's breeding birds from year to year while identifying the factors responsible for such changes and devising appropriate conservation measures. A three year crayfish reintroduction scheme was instituted in County Westmeath in 1998. I am also pleased that I obtained approval from the Minister for Finance for additional manpower resources for Dúchas - national parks and wildlife, which enabled that division of my Department to discharge its significantly increased functions and responsibilities. In addition to extra administrative and research staff, over 30 conservation rangers are being recruited. Many of these are now in place and are contributing to the enforcement of conservation measures and monitoring of species under the various legislative provisions in place.

While the initiatives detailed here are not exhaustive, they represent major contributions towards the protection and conservation of all wildlife species and their habitats.

Cláir Fhorbartha Náisiúnta.

56. D'fhiafraigh Proinsias De Rossa den Aire Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán cén plean straitéiseach atá ag Údarás na Gaeltachta chun an Ghaeilge a chaomhnú agus a fhorbairt sa Ghaeltacht sa tréimhse 2000-2006; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [19138/99]

Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Éamon Ó Cuív): Glacaim leis gur i gcomhthéacs an Chláir Fhorbartha Náisiúnta do chuspóirí Eorpacha atá an tréimhse 2000-06 luaite ag an Teachta. Níl straitéis foilsithe go fóill ag an Údarás ina ndírítear go sonrach ar an tréimhse sin. Tugann an tÚdarás cur síos soiléir ina Thuarascálacha Bliantúla, atá ar fáil i Leabharlann an Oireachtais, ar a chur chuige agus a straitéis i leith caomhnú agus leathadh na Gaeilge sa Ghaeltacht.

Tá críoch á cur ag an Údarás ar Ráiteas Straitéise don tréimhse 1999-2001 mar chuid den Tionscnamh um Bhainistíocht Straitéiseach san Earnáil Phoiblí. Cuimseoidh an Ráiteas sin an Ghaeilge sa Ghaeltacht.

Ar ndóigh tá cuid mhaith de na scéimeanna maidir le cur chun cinn na Gaeilge san Gaeltacht faoi chútam na Roinne Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán sa díreach.

Archaeological Sites.

57. Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if officials from her Department have examined the remains of a crannóg on the seafront at Ardmore, County Waterford; and the steps, if any, being taken to have it preserved, protected or excavated. [19174/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): The site of the crannóg at Ardmore was inspected in 1990 as part of the ongoing archaeological survey of Ireland fieldwork.

Earliest reported accounts of the crannóg date to the 1870s when it was discovered on peatland under the high water mark. Even then, fears were expressed about the denudation of the monument from the effects of coastal erosion.

It is thought that the crannóg was originally constructed in a salt marsh but in the intervening years it had become a coastal site from erosion of the sea, and that finally such erosion removed all visible signs of the crannóg.

It is possible however that remains of the crannóg survive below sub-surface level. The site has accordingly been included in the record of monuments and places for County Waterford under section 12 of the National Monuments (Amendment) Act, 1994. This affords the site legal protection in so far as I must be given two months prior notice of any proposal to carry out works on or at the site. I do not have, nor am I aware of, any plans to excavate the site.

Tree Felling.

58. Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands her views on the wholesale destruction of mature trees in and around urban areas due to development works; her further views on the fact that many fine mature trees are being removed spuriously on the pretext that they are diseased; if her Department is monitoring the situation and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19173/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera): The destruction of any tree is unwelcome from a wildlife perspective but the destruction of trees for unwarranted or spurious reasons certainly cannot be condoned. My Department through Dúchas, its heritage service, regularly furnishes comments on tree felling licence applications in relation to designated areas - special areas of conservation, special protection areas and natural heritage areas - furnished by the Department of Marine and Natural Resources. These designated areas are mainly - but not exclusively - located outside urban areas.

The principal mechanisms for the protection of trees in certain urban areas where felling licences are not required, is through the planning process and the making of tree preservation orders - TPO - by local authorities. Any trees which are the subject of a TPO cannot be felled unless the owner obtains planning permission. I understand that the importance of trees and their protection within the planning and development process has been highlighted to the planning authorities on a regular basis by the Department of Environment and Local Government. The recently published Planning and Development Bill 1999, seeks inter alia to provide a clearer and more coherent provision regarding tree preservation orders which is to be welcomed. My Department, through Dúchas, will continue to promote the conservation and protection of trees which form important wildlife habitats, contribute significantly to biodiversity and provide, particularly in urban areas, natural features which contribute to our quality of life.

World Trade Organisation.

59. Mr. Farrelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will attend the upcoming World Trade Organisation ministerial meeting in Seattle when the EU position will be formulated; if she will support the call for the EU to take a leading role in the call for an assessment of previous negotiations and an examination of the procedures of the organisation and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19381/99]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. T. Kitt): As the Minister of State with responsibility for trade, I would expect to be attending the third ministerial meeting of the World Trade Organisation, scheduled to be held in Seattle from 30 November to 3 December 1999. This ministerial meeting will take the necessary decisions to launch a millennium round of trade negotiations in the WTO in 2000. The European Union has been engaged in the detailed work, within the WTO, preparing for these negotiations. Ireland has participated fully in the preparation of EU positions.

The EU is firmly convinced that a comprehensive trade round, involving a broad range of issues is the best way to address the challenges resulting from rapid and far-reaching economic changes, to manage properly and effectively the globalisation process, to promote equitable growth and development and to respond in a balanced manner to the interests of all WTO members, in particular the developing countries.

Eight rounds of trade liberalisation and strengthening of multilateral trade rules have made a major contribution to global prosperity, development and rising living standards. Since 1951, global trade has grown 17 fold, world production has more than quadrupled, and world per capita income has doubled. The multilateral system has helped a large number of developing countries to successfully integrate into the international economy and developing countries' share of world export trade has increased by nearly 50 per cent over the past three years.

The WTO, since the conclusion of the Uruguay round, has brought about major improvements in market access and more predictable rules that have benefited the membership as a whole, in particular smaller countries. Over the period 1995-97, the volume of global trade increased by almost 8 per cent annually, far outpacing the growth in GNP. WTO and OECD studies on the impact of the Uruguay round have confirmed the positive impact on the world economy as its results are taking effect.

In addition to a decision to launch a new round of trade negotiations, I would hope that the Seattle ministerial will take decisions that will strengthen the WTO as an institution. These could include improvements to the dispute settlement understanding, the creation of an institutional basis to better address development concerns, the improvement of co-operation between the WTO and other major international institutions and improved procedures to create greater transparency and public awareness of the WTO.

EU Directives.

60. Mrs. Owen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if Ireland has implemented the EU directive on part-time work; if so, when it was implemented; if not, when it will be implemented and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19382/99]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. T. Kitt): A tripartite working group, representative of the social partners and Government, has been set up to discuss the measures necessary for the transposition of the EU Directive on Part-Time Work, which must be implemented by 20 January 2000. The working group has reached an advanced stage in its discussions and draft heads of the Bill are currently being prepared by my Department with a view to transposing the directive.

The purpose of the directive is to prevent part-time workers from being treated less favourably than full-time workers and, in this regard, it aims to provide for the removal of discrimination against part-time workers and to improve the quality of part-time work generally. The directive is also intended to facilitate the development of part-time work on a voluntary basis and to contribute to the flexible organisation of working time in a manner which takes into account the needs of both employees and employers.

EU Funding.

61. Mr. M. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has satisfied herself that no inordinate delays in European payments are impacting on the NOW programmes. [19384/99]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney): The EMPLOYMENT Initiative, of which NOW is a strand, has been operating since 1995 and will continue until end of 1999-early 2000. Over the course of the programme, delays have been experienced in receiving European Social Fund aid which have created difficulties for some project promoters participating in NOW. While projects have been paid their first advance, 50 per cent of their 1999 allocation, further advances have been claimed from the European Commission and are awaited. The next tranche of funding for this initiative is expected in four to six weeks. I would like to assure the Deputy that, once the advances are received in my Department, payments to projects will issue promptly.

Transport of Nuclear Fuels.

62. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to plans to transport nuclear fuel from Europe to Japan via the Irish Sea; if so, the objections, if any, raised by his Department on behalf of the Government; if he will investigate reports that two civilian ships will be armed to provide secure transportation of a new type of nuclear fuel manufactured in the United Kingdom and Belgium for Japan; if he will determine if any international or EU agreements have been breached in this regard; the risk this type of traffic poses for the environment and public health; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19378/99]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Dr. Woods): The Deputy should be aware that shipments of this nature have taken place in recent months. I have outlined my position to the House on this issue on several occasions, most recently on 29 September 1999. In essence the Government is opposed not only to the transport of nuclear fuels by sea but also to the very existence of Sellafield.

My main concerns regarding any transport of this nature are: to ensure that the vessels concerned do not pass through waters under our jurisdiction - I have assurances from the UK authorities that they will not; and to ensure that the highest possible levels of safety are applied - I raised this matter at the IMO assembly in November 1997 and work on the issue Is continuing at that forum.

My Department has also been discussing the development of improved reporting arrangements for voyages of vessels carrying such materials both within the IMO context and bilaterally with the countries concerned. Regarding the shipments which took place recently, my Department received assurances that the arrangements complied both with the highest international safety levels and with international agreements. The situation is however being kept under review.

Pension Provisions.

63. Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if his Department, the Fisheries Commission and the legal advisers of the Department of Finance have completed their discussions and arrived at an acceptable outcome for a person (details supplied) and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19409/99]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Dr. Woods): The Central Fisheries Board in conjunction with the Southern Regional Fisheries Commission has calculated lump sum and pension entitlements for the person concerned in accordance with the central and regional fisheries boards' staff superannuation scheme.

In addition, there is provision under the injury warrant scheme to allow for a payment of up to 3.5 times salary at the date of injury, and a special gratuity under this scheme is also payable to the person concerned in recognition of the exceptional circumstances surrounding his injuries.

I am satisfied that the package that has been offered, including the special gratuity, is the best that can be put for-ward and that there are no other schemes available to me to provide additional assistance.

Suckler Cow Quota.

64. Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if a decision in respect of the 1997 suckler cow scheme for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will be reviewed and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19385/99]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh): The headage and premia appeals unit fully examined the appeal lodged by the Herdowner concerning his 1997 suckler cow premium application. The herdowner was informed on 14 September 1999 that his appeal was unsuccessful. In the absence of any new evidence, there are no grounds for re-examination of this case.

Grant Payments.

65. Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the position in relation to a headage grant application for a person (details supplied) in County Donegal and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19386/99]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh): The person named included commonage in his 1999 area aid application, but did not provide proof of his entitlement to claim this commonage. The herdowner has been contacted in this regard. Until the necessary proof is provided, his claim can not be processed.

Farm Retirement Scheme.

66. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if his Department will review the case of a person (details supplied) in Kilkenny who is a participant in the early retirement from farming scheme. [19387/99]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh): The applicant in this case has appealed the decision of the Department. The matter is under review and the outcome of this review will issue shortly.

Milk Quota.

67. Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if, in view of the recent High Court findings, compensation will be awarded to farmers who have claimed against his Department due to the wrongful distribution of milk quota in 1984 without further court proceedings and further expenses on the farmers and on the State. [19388/99]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh): Legal proceedings, which were taken by a limited number of plaintiffs in 1990, are still before the High Court following judgments given in their favour in the Supreme Court in 1997. The current litigation relates to the assessment of damages in respect of these plaintiffs.

While other persons have made approaches to my Department in relation to this matter, no special provisions have been made for any arrangements in respect of any persons or group of persons who are not party to those proceedings as I have received legal advice to the effect that any proceedings that may be initiated by such persons are barred by the passage of time.

Installation Aid Scheme.

68. Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if an installation aid grant will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [19389/99]