The Programme for Government 2025, Securing Ireland's Future, set out a number of commitments relating to national security and defence, and work to give effect to these is well underway.

A key commitment in the Programme for Government was the introduction of a new Ministerial Council on National Security. I established the Ministerial Council on National Security last year, which comprises me as Chair, the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and for Defence, and the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration.

Since then, the Council’s meetings have received detailed, up to date briefings on the current national security situation and events, including relevant international developments and current cyber threats. The Council also receives detailed reports from the National Security Committee covering the full range of national security-related issues.

Having regard to the sensitive nature of the work of the Ministerial Council it is the practice not to disclose further information about the frequency, content or attendance at meetings.

The Cabinet Committee on Children and Education oversees the implementation of Programme for Government commitments in the area of children and education. It receives detailed reports on identified policy areas such as child poverty and well-being and education.

The membership of the Cabinet Committee on Children and Education comprises the:

• Taoiseach,

• Tánaiste and Minister for Finance,

• Minister for Health,

• Minister for Social Protection,

• Minister for Education and Youth,

• Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage,

• Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation,

• Minister for Children, Disability, and Equality.

The Programme for Government contains many important commitments intended to improve the lives of all children, and especially those children who need our help most. These commitments include:

• Setting an ambitious child poverty target.

• Progressively increasing the Child Support Payment.

• Expanding eligibility for the Fuel Allowance to families in receipt of the Working Family Payment.

• Exploring a targeted Child Benefit payment.

All these commitments have been progressed.

Last month, the Child Poverty and Well-being Programme Office in my Department published the second and final Progress Report under From Poverty to Potential, the first Programme Plan of the Programme Office.

The report details the progress made under From Poverty to Potential and captures the impact of the strengthened cross-government coordination and action on child poverty. It shows that the Programme Office is making a real difference in children’s lives across a wide range of areas. We intend to keep up this momentum as we work towards the Government’s goal of reducing child poverty to 3% or less by the end of 2030.

Child and Family Homelessness is one of the most pressing challenges we face in ensuring the well-being of children. The Programme Office has been working with officials in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to develop a Child and Family Homelessness Action Plan, which is a commitment in the new housing plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities: An Action Plan on Housing Supply and Targeting Homelessness. It is anticipated that the Child and Family Homelessness Action Plan will be published in September.

Government is continuing to work to reduce parental fees to an upper limit of €200 per month for Early Learning and Care and School Age Childcare. The Phase 1 Report, published in December 2025, is focused on short-term actions to be undertaken in 2026. Progress has already been made with unprecedented investment in the sector, and a significant and rising proportion of families (particularly lower-income families) who already pay less than €200 per month in ELC/SAC fees. Government will publish the Phase 2 action to release this objective later in 2026.

The Government’s vision for education is to deliver a world class education system which breaks down barriers and ensures every child can achieve their full potential. That is why we remain committed to realising the potential of the new DEIS and DEIS Plus programme.

Meeting the needs of children with disabilities is a priority for me and for Government. That is why we established a dedicated Cabinet Committee on Disability. The work of this Cabinet Committee is progressing important initiatives to respond to the needs and well-being of children. Significant increases in investment in disability services are also being delivered.

The Cabinet Committee on Children and Education met in May. It will meet again in due course.

Referred to CSO for answer

The Central Statistics Office will run a census of population and housing during April and May 2027 with the census date set as the 9th May 2027. This will be the first census in Ireland where the public will have the option to complete their census form online. A paper census form will also be available to householders. The census will move from a ‘de facto’ census, which means counting everyone where they are staying on one specific night, to counting the usually resident population. People who are usually resident in Ireland at the time of the census will have an opportunity to complete the census during the five weeks leading up to census date.

As Census 2027 is the first online census in Ireland, the process for collating the preliminary results will differ to previous censuses. Definitive timelines have not been confirmed, and we would expect that the preliminary results will be available no later than 6 months after census day (9th May 2027) with the final results released approximately 12 months after census day (May 2028).

The Department of the Taoiseach currently employs three temporary Presidency Policy Officers on fixed term contracts at Administrative Officer grade. All three officers are based in Government Buildings.

In line with the terms and conditions governing their appointments, these officers are not eligible to apply for internal Civil Service competitions.

All staff in the Department are supported and encouraged to pursue continuous professional development and career progression in the Civil and Public Service, and the experience gained working on the Presidency will be valuable in pursuing future opportunities.

The Department of the Taoiseach prepares progress reports on the implementation of actions committed to under the Climate Action Plan. The reports give a detailed breakdown of both completed and delayed activity across Departments and Agencies. Once approved by Government, the progress reports and accompanying tables of actions are published online.

All of the actions for which my Department had lead responsibilty in successive Climate Action Plans have been completed. Detail on these actions is publicly available on gov.ie. My Department has no remaining legacy actions awaiting delivery.

My Department continues to prepare progress reports on the remaining high impact legacy actions due from other Departments. A joint Progress Report for Q1 and Q2 2026 has been finalised and will be published on gov.ie shortly.

The Department of the Taoiseach prepares progress reports on the implementation of actions committed to under the Climate Action Plan. The reports give a detailed breakdown of both completed and delayed activity across Departments and Agencies. Once approved by Government, the progress reports and accompanying tables of actions are published online.

All of the actions for which my Department had lead responsibilty in successive Climate Action Plans have been completed. Detail on these actions is publicly available on gov.ie. My Department has no remaining legacy actions awaiting delivery.

My Department continues to prepare progress reports on the remaining high impact legacy actions due from other Departments. A joint Progress Report for Q1 and Q2 2026 has been finalised and will be published on gov.ie shortly.

Referred to CSO For answer

The exact information requested by the Deputy is not available.

The Labour Force Survey (LFS) is the official source of estimates of employment in the State. The most recent figures available are for Q1 2026.

Due to the methodology and sample size of the survey it is not possible to produce reliable county estimates from the LFS.

Regional estimates of employment are produced by NUTS 3 level. NUTS are the geocode standard developed and regulated by Eurostat.

While the information at county level is not provided by the LFS, there is supplementary information available from Revenue’s administrative PAYE data which provides further insight on employments.

Earnings Analysis using Administrative Data Sources (EAADS) outputs contain employment figures on an annual basis. It should be noted that EAADS estimates are for employees only, and do not include persons who are self-employed. Please also note that the estimate provided by EAADS relate to the number of employments, rather than number of employees. The annual employment estimates from the EAADS dataset are restricted to employments which were active during the month of October, in line with Eurostat requirements relating to Structure of Earnings Statistics. The EAADS time series begins in 2011 and the most recent figures available are for 2024.

Table 1 shows the employment by NUTS3 Regions and NACE Rev. 2.0 economic sector, Q1 2017 – Q1 20226 (LFS)

Table 2 shows the total number of employments by county, 2015-2024 (EAADS).

Table 1 and 2

Our Programme for Government sets out an ambitious agenda for Building our Shared Island, backed by the Shared Island Fund which is now a total €2 billion commitment out to 2035.

Shared Island Fund allocations are made by the Government to enable progress with priority projects and programmes that deliver on our Shared Island investment commitments and objectives under the Programme for Government and National Development Plan.

Shared Island Fund allocations are decided by Government and are managed directly by the relevant Government Department in line with Public Financial Procedures and Infrastructure Guidelines.

Shared Island Fund allocations are typically made to projects and programmes on a co-funding basis, alongside funding from other Exchequer sources and on a collaborative cross-border basis with contributions by the Northern Ireland Executive and / or UK Government.

Consideration of any proposal would be for the relevant line Minister and their Department in the first instance, in consultation with Northern Ireland Executive counterparts.

While there is no Shared Island programme that specifically funds minor capital works projects, there are other Government and Northern Ireland Executive funding sources that provide support for minor capital works in each jurisdiction.

An overview of all Shared Island funded programmes is available at www.gov.ie/sharedisland.

The Department of the Taoiseach maintains a constant focus on being a lean, agile organisation. The Programme for Government dictates the Department's priority work areas and resources are assigned and reallocated to align with those priorities.

The single biggest expenditure item for the Department is pay costs (approximately 70% of Gross Estimate allocation). The Department intends to resource new and expanding work areas by reallocating existing resources and, only where necessary, recruiting additional staff. Where such recruitment is necessary, secondment arrangements will be one of the main recruitment methods to ensure that (i) the necessary skills/experience gaps are filled in a way that does not result in a permanent increase in the Department’s headcount; and (ii) the sunsetting of relevant work programmes at the appropriate time is facilitated.

Within the last year, the Department has restructured its Corporate Services Division and reallocated staff to establish a new Strategy and Performance Unit dedicated to Strategic Planning, Compliance and Innovation. A key element of this Unit’s work is a programme of Business Process Improvement and Innovation with a view to delivering increased efficiency, effectiveness and improved service provision. This reform resulted in a saving this year of €10,000 with delivery in-house of a previously outsourced switchboard service which will contribute to the Department’s implementation of the levy.

The independent COVID-19 Evaluation is funded from the Vote of the Department of the Taoiseach. The Evaluation has approached its work in a phased manner aligned with its Terms of Reference. This work is expected to culminate in the delivery of a final comprehensive report by the end of 2026. The balance of the levy (€540,000) will be achieved through the effective and efficient wind-down of the COVID-19 Evaluation.

The Department will continue to engage fully and constructively with the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation in relation to the 2027 Estimates process.

The National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO), incorporating the National Economic and Social Council (NESC), is the only body under the aegis of the Department of the Taoiseach. Oireachtas members can contact NESDO by emailing Oireachtas@nesdo.ie or by phone at 01-8146300.

A comprehensive learning and development programme is implemented by the Department of the Taoiseach to ensure that staff at all levels have the required skills and knowledge to perform their individual roles and deliver the strategic objectives of the Department. The programme includes training courses provided by the Institute of Public Administration (IPA) which is responsible for OneLearning - the learning and development system which provides training on the core skills and capabilities for the civil service.

The Department's staffing complement at end June 2026 was 250.3* FTE. In the period 1 January 2024 to date, a total of 93 staff in the Department completed AI-related training and other programmes. 42 staff attended one or more training courses that related to AI. In addition to training courses, 51 staff in the Department engaged in conferences, webinars and masterclasses relevant to their roles in areas related to AI. As part of the Department's comprehensive Learning and Development plan, further AI related courses, at both introductory and advanced levels, are expected to be completed before year end. Details of the training courses undertaken are set out in the table below.

*excludes political staff

The National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO) is the only body under the aegis of the Department of the Taoiseach. NESDO's staffing complement at end June 2026 was 16.7 FTE. In the period 1 January 2024 to date, 15 staff in NESDO attended one or more training courses related to AI. Details of the training are outlined in the table below.

Referred to CSO for answer

The Central Statistics Office does not compile or publish data on the citizenship or nationality of persons convicted of homicide offences in the State.

The CSO receives data on homicide offences via the quarterly PULSE extract from An Garda Síochána and this data does not contain information about the citizenship or nationality of suspected offenders.

The Garda Commissioner is operationally responsible for PULSE data.

Referred to CSO for answer

The CSO publishes annual estimates of migration in its Population and Migration Estimates publication. The corresponding figures for 2026 will be published in August 2026. Information on the reasons cited by Irish persons for emigration are not collected or published. Furthermore, the CSO does not compile statistics on the factors driving outward migration.

The Department of the Taoiseach, through the Senior Officials Group which supports the Cabinet Committee on Climate Action, Energy and Environment, has coordinated work across Departments on potential costs arising for the State in reaching compliance with EU energy and climate targets for the decade to 2030. The work is of a technical nature and is revisited as new emissions, energy and carbon price information becomes available. The group includes representation from six Government Departments and has met on eight occasions since October 2024 . It has not published any documents. As with similar issues under the remit of Cabinet Committees, policy responsibility remains with the relevant line Departments, in this case primarily the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment.

The Department of the Taoiseach does not own any property. Accommodation used by the Department is provided and managed by the Office of Public Works.

The number of active civil proceedings in which the Chief State Solicitor's Office (CSSO) is currently on record is being collated. The CSSO have advised me that there are a large number of files involved that require an individual review of the history of each file. It will, therefore, take some time for the CSSO to pull this information together. I will revert to the Deputy directly with the information requested as soon as it is received in the Department of the Taoiseach.

The current number of solicitors employed by the Chief State Solicitor’s Office is 237.

The Department of the Taoiseach and the National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO) - the only body under the aegis of the Department - liaise closely with the Office of Government Procurement on all matters related to public procurement and monitor all areas of expenditure on an ongoing basis to ensure that value for money is being achieved.

Under Department of Finance Circular 40/2002, annual returns are made to the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG) in respect of contracts above a €25,000 threshold which are awarded without a competitive process as part of the preparation of the Appropriation Account. The Department made this return in respect of 2025.

All procurement in the Department and NESDO is audited by the C&AG.

The audit of the Department's 2025 Appropriation Account is still underway.

NESDO’s 2025 Annual Report, which contains their audited financial statements, will be submitted to Government shortly and subsequently published.

The audit of the Department's Appropriation Account and NESDO's financial statements for 2026 can only commence when both bodies have submitted same to the C&AG.

In its Statement of Strategy 2025 - 2028, the Department of the Taoiseach commits to the judicious deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology with a view to enhancing its capacity to deliver its strategic and operational objectives.

The Department has established an AI Governance Board which is overseeing the development of a comprehensive AI strategy and policy. The strategy and policy are being developed in line with the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation's Guidelines for the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Public Service and the National Cyber Security Centre's Guidance on Generative AI for Public Sector Bodies. The Department's approach to AI will be informed by an AI Risk Assessment and Data Impact Assessment, both of which are currently underway.

AI tools are currently being used in the Department for low-risk tasks, including desk-based research and the summarising of reports and documents.

The National Economic and Social Development Office - the only body under the aegis of the Department of the Taoiseach - makes use of AI tools such as writing assistants to support the preparation and drafting of documents.

The arrangements to be observed by office holders in respect of gifts of goods or services are set out in the Guidelines on Compliance with the Provisions of the Ethics in Public Office Acts 1995 and 2001 which are published on the website of the Standards in Public Office Commission.

Statements made annually by office holders must include all gifts of goods and services which exceed €650 in value. These statements are published in Iris Oifigiúil and are also available on the website of the Houses of the Oireachtas.

Records are not maintained by the Department of the Taoiseach in relation to gifts of lesser value received from time to time.

Three gifts - received in November 2025, March 2026 and May 2026 respectively - are currently being valued. If a gift exceeds the threshold, it will be noted on the register once the valuation is complete.

Details of total expenditure by the Department of the Taoiseach since 2022 on training for preparation for Oireachtas Committee appearances are outlined in the table below. The delivery of this training was not in respect of any specific committee.

The National Economic and Social Development Office - the only body under the aegis of the Department - has not incurred any expenditure on training in preparation for appearances before Oireachtas Committees in the period specified.

In its Statement of Strategy 2025 - 2028, the Department of the Taoiseach commits to the judicious deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology with a view to enhancing its capacity to deliver its strategic and operational objectives.

The Department has established an AI Governance Board which is overseeing the development of a comprehensive AI strategy and policy. The strategy and policy are being developed in line with the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation's Guidelines for the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Public Service and the National Cyber Security Centre's Guidance on Generative AI for Public Sector Bodies. The Department's approach to AI will be informed by an AI Risk Assessment and Data Impact Assessment, both of which are currently underway.

AI tools are currently being used for low-risk tasks, including desk-based research and the summarising of reports and documents.

AI tools are not used to generate responses to Parliamentary Questions.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 23, 24 and 25 together.

All Department of the Taoiseach official devices, and the software applications that run on them, comply with guidance provided by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). This guidance is based on risk assessments appropriate to the circumstances and is kept under continuous review by the Department and the NCSC.

The Department requires all users of official devices to exercise appropriate discretion in their use and to use these devices in compliance with the Department's acceptable usage policies, relevant legislation and the Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour.

I am satisfied that my use of email and messaging applications, including WhatsApp, is in line with the Department's requirements.

Referred to CSO For answer

The Central Statistics Office (CSO) in advance of the next Census in 2031 will, as with previous years, invite submissions for possible changes to the Census Form, from representatives of Government departments, public bodies, the social partners, research institutes and CSO personnel.

Referred to CSO For answer

The CSO held a public consultation between 30 November 2022 and 20 January 2023 which invited submissions on the content of the form for the 2027 Census of Population. Over 400 submissions were received. The CSO convened a Census Advisory Group (CAG) who met in June 2023 to discuss the submissions. The group is made up of representatives of Government departments, public bodies, the social partners, research institutes and CSO personnel. Their remit was to assist the CSO in the framing of the Census 2027 questionnaire.

The CAG then agreed a selection of new topics and where necessary, changes to existing questions that could be included in Census 2027. All proposed questions were tested in a pilot census in September 2024. The CSO carried out an analysis of pilot census results and presented the findings to the CAG. The final recommendations of the CAG were brought to government for approval.

The Central Statistics Office (CSO) in advance of the next Census in 2031 will, as with previous years, invite submissions for possible changes to the Census Form, from representatives of Government departments, public bodies, the social partners, research institutes and CSO personnel.

The Roadmap for Delivery of the Dublin City Taskforce Report creates an enabling environment designed to build confidence with business, landholders and investors to get involved in achieving a new vision for Dublin City Centre and to drive private sector investment.

An Oversight Board, comprising all of the relevant Departments and Agencies, has been established to oversee and provide strategic direction for delivery of the Roadmap. It is chaired by the Department of the Taoiseach. The Board has been meeting regularly since its establishment in July.

Each relevant department and agency will factor the funding requirements of specific actions under the Delivery Roadmap into the appropriate phases of the 2025 revised NDP and funding allocations for different sectors. Additional funding under the new Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund (formerly URDF) has been provided under the 2025 revised NDP which will help create redevelopment momentum more generally and support creation of the oversight structures and support the set-up of the SPV.

In addition, changes to the Living City Initiative, announced as part of Budget 2026, will support regeneration and efforts to tackle vacancy and dereliction in the city.

For revenue costs relating to services (whether new or existing commitments), these will be dealt with in the Estimates processes year-on-year, commencing in Budget 2026.

Changes to the Living City Initiative announced as part of Budget 2026 will also support regeneration and efforts to tackle vacancy and dereliction in cities: Cork, Dublin, Galway, Kilkenny, Limerick and Waterford, and from 8 April 2026, also in the following towns: Athlone, Drogheda, Dundalk, Letterkenny, and Sligo.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 29, 30 and 31 together.

The Department of the Taoiseach did not fund any non-governmental organisations in the period 2020 to date.

As in previous Presidencies, a visual identity comprising a logo, slogan and branding guidance has been developed for the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026. The purpose of the visual identity is to enhance visibility of the work of the Presidency through distinct and recognisable branding across physical spaces and digital communications channels. The visual identity of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union emphasises the interdependence and interconnectedness of all member states of the EU. The total cost for the design, development and production of the visual identity is €36,757.33, inclusive of VAT. The development of the visual identity was carried out by a creative agency under an existing procurement framework within my Department.

As I previously noted to the Deputy, negotiation of the 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) is a top priority for Ireland’s EU Presidency. As Presidency, we are committed to being an ‘honest broker’; to working constructively with all EU Member States, institutions and stakeholders to agree workable compromises for an EU budget that addresses the many needs and demands of the Union, in a fiscally responsible manner. The AgoraEU programme is an important aspect of that consideration.

The overall volume and the balance of priorities within the MFF are some of the key issues for the Irish Presidency to address over the next number of months. As Member States are clearly divided on such issues, agreement will require the compromise of all. Given the early stage of our role, and the stage at which negotiations are at, it is too early to comment on the overall volume. Ultimately, this will be concluded at the final stages of negotiations by Leaders at the European Council meeting.

While my Department and the Department of Finance lead jointly on the overarching MFF negotiations, it is important to note that responsibility for the AgoraEU programme sits with the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport.

The Education, Youth, Culture and Sport Council agreed a partial general approach on the Agora EU regulation on the 12 May 2026. This agreement will form the basis of negotiation of the regulation with the European Parliament, which is the next stage of the process.

As Presidency Ireland is ready to take forward these inter-institutional negotiations. However, that requires readiness on the part of the European Parliament which we cannot control. In the meantime, our focus as Presidency is to advance negotiations on the overarching MFF package.

At the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai in 2023 (COP28), agreement was reached on the establishment of a new Loss and Damage Fund to support developing countries to respond to the effects of climate change. Ireland played a key role in the design, scope and structure of the new Fund. Ireland pledged a €25 million contribution to the Fund, demonstrating our support for its implementation. This pledge has been fully met, with the payment of €10 million in November 2024 and €15 million in June 2025.

Following the establishment of the Loss and Damage Fund, Ireland was nominated to the Board in 2024 and shares an Alternate Board Member seat with the European Commission. Ireland’s key priority on the Board is to ensure that the Fund is fully operationalised and that financial and technical support reaches the countries that are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

The call for proposals for the start-up phase of the Fund was launched at COP 30 in Belém last year. Ireland’s priority for this process is to guarantee that at least 50% of the initial $250 million is allocated to Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States.

Ireland was represented at the 9th Meeting of the Board of the Fund in Manila from 8-10 July 2026 where discussions focused on managing the pipeline of the 176 funding requests submitted. Ireland will attend the 10th Board meeting of the Fund in Manila from 15-18 December 2026 where it is anticipated the first formal funding decisions and allocations will be finalised.

European Union Member States currently hold seven of the twelve developed countries seats on the Board, with four Member States, including Ireland, acting as Alternate Board Members. All Board meetings are preceded by comprehensive constituency meetings where the European Union Member States and other developed countries coordinate unified policy positions.

Under Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will lead the European Union Delegation in Loss and Damage negotiations during COP 31 Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye in November.

All passport applications are subject to the terms of the Passports Act, 2008 (“the Act”). The Act provides a legal basis for the various policies and practices that are applied by the Passport Service in the issuing of passports.

Section 10 of the Act provides that a passport will issue in the name of a citizen as it appears on his/her birth certificate or naturalisation certificate. However, a name change for a passport from that which appears on a person’s birth certificate is permitted under the Act in situations such as marriage, civil partnership etc. where civil, or legal documents are available to verify this change.

In cases where name change arises, other than by marriage or civil partnership etc, the Act requires evidence of the use of this new name over a two year period. If a person requests issuance of a passport with a name change consisting of the use of the Irish version of his/her name, the Passport Service may adopt some flexibility in this policy and may facilitate the request if the applicant provides proof of a minimum period of six months usage of the Irish version of their name. In such cases, the Passport Service will include an observation on the passport recording the person’s birth certificate or previous name. This observation must remain on the passport until the condition of two years proof of usage can be satisfied. After the required two years and if the person wishes to do so, he/she may reapply (full fee will be required), submitting the required two years proof, and a new passport may issue without the observation.

These rules seek to protect the integrity and security of the Irish passports against passport and identity fraud while allowing for genuine cases where name changes have occurred. The Irish passport has a strong international reputation due to the strength of security features within the book and the robust processes involved in its issuance.

I am concerned about recent reports indicating a further deterioration in the condition of Dr Hussam Abu Safiya. On 27 December 2024 the Israeli Defence Forces carried out an attack targeting the Kamal Adwan Hospital in northern Gaza, during the course of which Dr Abu Safiya was detained. As noted by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, in his report of 31 December 2024, the pattern of Israeli attacks on Gaza hospitals throughout the conflict in Gaza raises grave concerns about serious crimes under international law.

Ireland is clear that hospitals must never be militarised or targeted. Deliberate targeting of health facilities is a violation of international humanitarian law. Humanitarian workers must be protected at all times as they carry out their life-saving work. Ireland also condemns all forms of torture and ill-treatment, and calls upon all States to combat and prevent the use of torture and other forms of ill-treatment.

Ireland, including through our Representative Office in Ramallah, will continue to monitor developments in relation to this case and continues to call on Israel to comply with international law, stressing the universal applicability of international law, including humanitarian law.

I continue to have grave concerns about the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, with intolerable conditions. Israel must immediately remove restrictions on aid access and facilitate essential supplies and services to reach people across the Gaza Strip.

I commend the bravery of the doctors, nurses, paramedics and other healthcare professionals who continue to work in these appalling conditions to carry out their duties. Likewise, I note with admiration the continued advocacy of healthcare workers in Ireland for their counterparts in Palestine.

The crisis in Palestine remains a central priority for the Government and my Department continues to press for immediate and unimpeded humanitarian access in Gaza, advocate for progress in the peace process, and stress our deep concern at the deteriorating situation in the West Bank.

As I am sure you are aware, since the start of the Gaza crisis, my Department has facilitated nearly 400 people to exit Gaza and travel to Ireland. This includes university students taking up studies in Ireland’s Higher Education Institutions, some of whom are recipients of the Ireland-Palestine Scholarship Programme and of Government of Ireland Awards.

Where appropriate, my Department has worked with relevant international partners to support the success of these operations. This includes working with the UN and International NGOs, and through EU cooperation and coordination mechanisms. My Department also coordinates directly with Irish HEIs, the Irish Council for International Students, the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, and the Higher Education Authority to facilitate the travel of eligible students to Ireland from Gaza.

However, as I am sure you can understand, my Department is limited in the assistance that it can provide to non-Irish citizens seeking to travel from Palestine to Ireland, particularly when this travel is from Gaza.

Any individual seeking assistance to leave Gaza must first be in possession of a valid visa or permission to travel to Ireland. While our Embassy in Tel Aviv can facilitate the submission of applications from Gaza electronically, applicants, including students, must satisfy visa criteria. Visa Policy is a matter for the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, which will review applications in accordance with Irish legislation.

As you will be aware, operations for assisted departure from Gaza to Ireland are very complex, and take place in a challenging security environment. These operations require the involvement of Ireland’s regional embassy network, coordination with external partners, and multiple permissions from the relevant local authorities. While my Department makes requests for all the necessary permissions for those eligible to travel, the decisions to grant or deny such requests are outside the control of the Government of Ireland.

I assure you that my Department will continue to seek options to provide practical support, where possible, to individuals with permission to travel to Ireland, including students.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 66 together.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has engaged with a wide range of interlocutors to ensure that Ireland’s foreign policy, including on the issue of Israeli settlements, is well known and understood.

The Government’s decision to take forward the Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2026 has been the subject of intense discussion. In early July 2025, the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade undertook pre-legislative scrutiny of the General Scheme of the Bill. During this pre-legislative scrutiny stage, the Joint Committee heard from business groups, as well as Government officials, legal and academic experts, as well as Israeli and Palestinian advocacy groups, and representatives of Ireland’s Jewish community. The issue of potential economic impact was also addressed in the published Regulatory Impact Analysis.

We value these contributions as part of a robust and inclusive debate. The Government’s position and, indeed, that of the EU is clear: settlements are illegal under international law and undermine the realisation of a two-state solution. As such, the Government made a commitment in the Programme for Government to progress legislation to prohibit the import of goods from Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory.

On 15 July, the Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill was passed by the Seanad, completing its passage through the Oireachtas. The Bill can now be signed into law. Once the Bill is enacted and commenced, the importation of goods originating in the settlements into Ireland will be an offence under section 14 of the Customs Act 2015.

The Bill will contribute positively to Ireland’s efforts to uphold and comply with international law, including the findings of the 2024 ICJ Advisory Opinion, as well as contributing positively to Irish and international efforts to prevent unilateral actions that impinge upon the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and upon the viability of the two-State solution.

While Ireland is moving ahead at national level, the Government remains clear that collective action at EU level is the strongest and most effective route. Ireland is actively pursuing that collective approach at EU level.

With regard to the specific application about which the Deputy has enquired, the Passport Service has issued the passport to the applicant.

I fully recognise the difficulties the current process may present for bereaved families and the Passport Service seeks to be as sympathetic and supportive as possible in assisting bereaved parents throughout the application process.

In terms of the process in place, where a child's guardian is deceased, the Passport Service requests the original death certificate of the deceased guardian and a Sole Guardian Affidavit from the surviving guardian confirming that they are the only guardian of the child.

When one guardian is deceased, it may not always be the case that the surviving parent is the only guardian of the child. For example, a guardian can, in a will or deed, appoint someone else to be a testamentary guardian after he or she dies. In addition, step-parents or other family members may have acquired guardianship of a child following the death of a parent. In order to protect the rights of children and their guardians, the Passport Service needs to confirm each time that it has the consent of all relevant guardians before it can issue a passport.

The Passport Service is continuously looking at ways to make the application process easier for applicants and has met with Widows and Bereaved Parents Ireland to discuss their concerns. The Passport Service is currently reviewing its processes relating to the documentary requirements for children of deceased parents.

Passport applications are subject to the terms of the Passports Act, 2008 as amended (“the 2008 Act”), which provides the legal basis for the policies and practices that are applied by the Passport Service.

Following the Gender Recognition Act, 2015, (“the 2015 Act”), which provides a legal right to a person to have their preferred gender formally recognised by the State, passport applicants should provide a Gender Recognition Cert (GRC) from the Department of Social Protection with their passport application.

Regardless of where they reside, where a passport applicant is changing their name on the basis of a GRC issued by the Department of Social Protection under the 2015 Act, the Passport Service does not require two years’ proof of use of their new name.

For a passport renewal applicant, the following original documents are requested:

• Original GRC as issued by the Department of Social Protection.

• Current Irish passport.

For a first time applicant, the following original documents are requested:

• Witnessed identity verification form.

• Original GRC as issued by the Department of Social Protection.

• Original Civil Birth certificate as re-issued after gender recognition (if available).

• Proof of address such as Government correspondence such as a letter from the Department of Social Protection or the Revenue Commissioners.

• Proof of name such as Government correspondence such as a letter from the Department of Social Protection or the Revenue Commissioners.

• Photographic identification such as a copy of a Public Services Card or certified copy of a driver's licence.

Section 11 of the 2008 Act provides that where an applicant is not eligible for a GRC, they must produce (i) a statutory declaration declaring that they have a settled and solemn intention of living in the new gender for the rest of their life and understand the consequences of the application, and (ii) if appropriate, evidence of the use of their new name.

Section 10 of the 2008 Act provides that a passport will issue in the name of a citizen as it appears on their birth certificate or naturalisation certificate. However, a name change for a passport from that which appears on a person’s birth certificate is permitted under the 2008 Act in situations such as marriage, civil partnership etc. where civil or legal documents are available to verify this change.

In cases where a name change arises, other than by marriage or civil partnership etc., the 2008 Act requires evidence of the use of this new name over a two year period.

For a passport renewal applicant, who is not eligible to apply for a GRC, the following original documents are requested:

• A statutory declaration declaring that the applicant has a settled and solemn intention of living in the new gender for the rest of his or her life and understands the consequences of the application.

• If changing name, two documents showing usage of the new name over two years.

• Current Irish passport.

For a first time applicant, who is not eligible to apply for a GRC, the following original documents are requested:

• Witnessed identity verification form.

• A statutory declaration declaring that the applicant has a settled and solemn intention of living in the new gender for the rest of his or her life and understands the consequences of the application.

• Original Civil Birth certificate (showing parents' information - this is a key document to establish citizenship)

• Proof of address such as original utility bills, or bank statements or Government correspondence.

• Photographic identification such as a an original passport from another country or a certified copy of driver’s licence.

• If changing name, two documents showing usage of the new name over two years.

These sensitive cases are processed by highly trained and experienced Passport Service officers, who seek to balance the rights of applicants who have changed their gender, and in some cases their name, with protecting the integrity of the Irish passport.

On 15 July, the Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2026 completed its passage through the Oireachtas. Once the Bill is enacted and commenced, the importation of goods originating in the settlements into Ireland will be an offence under section 14 of the Customs Act 2015.

The Bill will contribute positively to Ireland’s efforts to uphold and comply with international law, including the findings of the 2024 ICJ Advisory Opinion, as well as contributing positively to Irish and international efforts to prevent unilateral actions that impinge upon the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and upon the viability of the two-State solution.

While Ireland is moving ahead at national level, the Government remains clear that collective action at EU level is the strongest and most effective route to prohibit trade with Israeli settlements. Ireland is actively pursuing that collective approach at EU level.

At the July Foreign Affairs Council, I again called for the Commission to table a concrete proposal aimed at prohibiting EU trade with Israeli settlements, with a view to a vote by Member States. It was agreed that this will be discussed further at official level in advance of consideration by Ministers again.

Ireland will continue to press for appropriate EU action in response to egregious Israeli breaches of human rights and democratic principles in the occupied Palestinian territory. In addition to our advocacy for an EU ban on trade with Israeli settlements, Ireland has also called for the suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, or at a minimum the suspension of the trade elements of the Agreement.

During our Presidency, we will seek to ensure that work continues to support efforts to achieve a lasting peace in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on the two-State solution. This includes advocating for a strong response to direct threats to the viability of the two-State solution, including settlement expansion and settler violence.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 43 and 44 together.

I would like to thank the Deputy for their questions on this important matter. Online safety, in particular for children and young people, is a top priority for the Government. This is reflected in our National Digital and AI strategy Connecting our People, Securing our Future. It is also a priority for Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the EU.

As regards the Special Panel on child safety online, it was convened by President von der Leyen to explore key issues for the online safety of children, including examining the potential need for harmonised age restrictions to access social media. The Special Panel’s Report was published on 13 July and is an important and welcome contribution to the debate on how best to protect our children online.

The report makes 15 recommendations to both protect and empower children and young people in the online world. These include access restrictions for children under 13, with the potential for additional measures at national level, harmonised rules on key safety features in the design of social media and other digital services, strengthening enforcement and access to data for researchers, and strengthening complaint mechanisms and consumer rights.

European Commission President von der Leyen has announced that the European Commission will bring forward proposals to further protect children online after the summer. That is very welcome, and during our Presidency of the Council of the EU, we will give priority to negotiations on those proposals as soon as they emerge. In relation to the question of restrictions on social media for children, the Government’s preference is for an EU-wide approach. The report of the Special Panel advances that ambition and shows a clear direction in this regard.

The Government has had extensive engagement at the EU level on the topic of online safety, including at the level of the Taoiseach and the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport. My Department has also supported this engagement, and the issue of online safety has featured frequently in discussions between my officials and counterparts in the EU institutions and other Member States. In the lead up to the report, officials at Ireland’s Permanent Representation to the EU as part of our Council Presidency held an informal breakfast meeting on 7 July with the co-chairs of the Special Panel and Deputy Permanent Representatives of the 27 Member States. Discussions focused on the mental health challenges associated with early use of social media, and the addictive nature of services driven by recommender algorithms, amongst other issues.

My Department will continue to support Ireland’s engagement at EU level on these important matters, including in the context of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the EU. The Department of Culture, Communications and Sport will host a high-level conference on online safety as part of the Presidency in September for which my Department will provide operational support to help facilitate an impactful and meaningful conference.

Foreign Birth Registration (FBR) applications are currently being processed within the turnaround time of 12 months from receipt of supporting documents. Applications that require further supporting documents will take longer to process.

By its nature, FBR is a detailed and complex process, often involving official documentation relating to three generations and issued by several jurisdictions. Such documents take considerable time to validate.

With regard to the specific application about which the Deputy has enquired, the supporting documents and application form were received in the FBR office on 16/04/2026. Therefore this application is within the normal turnaround time. The Passport Service will contact the applicant directly if any further documents are required.

All passport applications are subject to the provisions of the Passports Act 2008 ("the 2008 Act"), as amended. The 2008 Act provides, among other things, that a person must be an Irish citizen before a passport can be issued to that person.

Entitlement to Irish citizenship is determined by the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended, under which Irish citizenship may be obtained by birth, by descent, or by naturalisation.

A person may be entitled to Irish citizenship through descent. Eligibility for citizenship through descent (i.e. Foreign Birth Registration) can be ascertained on www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/citizenship. If eligible, a person may apply online for entry on the Foreign Birth Registry.

My Department is responsible for processing Foreign Birth Registration (FBR) applications for people who are born abroad and claim Irish citizenship through a grandparent born in Ireland or through a parent who has claimed citizenship also through FBR or Naturalisation.

With regard to the specific case about which the Deputy has enquired, the infant was born abroad to a citizen born abroad. Therefore, the citizen should apply for their infant's entry on the Foreign Birth Registry. Once the infant is entered onto the Foreign Birth Registry, an application for a passport can be made.

The Passport Service has contacted the customer to provide assistance. Should assistance be required with a FBR application, our Customer Service agents are available through phone and webchat services, from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. They can be contacted at +353 1 671 1633, or via the webchat service: www.ireland.ie/contactpassportservice.

Ireland has a global network of diplomatic missions that includes Embassies, Consulates and missions to multilateral organisations such as the European Union and the United Nations. These missions are staffed by posted Irish civil servants and locally recruited staff.

The table below reports on WTE figures as of 30 June 2026. Included in these figures are seconded officers from other Departments.

My Department also employs locally recruited staff across the mission network. These colleagues play an invaluable role in supporting the delivery of the Department's goals and objectives, and work principally on issues such as consular and visa services, administration responsibilities, supporting trade, cultural and public diplomacy targets and events, and working on Ireland's development assistance programme. These positions are also listed in the table that follows.

My Department continues to provide consular assistance in this case, as it has since it was first notified of it in September 2025.

I can confirm that these correspondences were received, and that a reply to the correspondence of 22 June issued on 17 July 2026.

I can assure you that the focus of my Department, including through its Consulate General in Munich, supported by the Embassy of Ireland in Berlin and the Consular Directorate in Dublin, is on providing consular assistance to the citizen.

The issue raised by the Deputy is part of the ongoing Budget 2027 negotiations. In that context, it wouldn’t be appropriate for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to comment at this time.

There are no agencies under the aegis of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The Passport Service operates a phone line to respond to Oireachtas Members' queries on urgent passport cases. In each case raised by an Oireachtas Member, the Passport Service reviews the application in question. It is important to note that this phone line does not function as a means of expediting passport applications.

In regard to queries on other matters, the relevant contact details are set out on the Department's website at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-foreign-affairs/organisation-information/department-of-foreign-affairs-and-trade-contact-details/.

My recent visit to Saudi Arabia was part of a broader visit to the Gulf to engage with some of Ireland's partners in the region, and express solidarity with them after months of conflict and of instability.

Ireland maintains positive bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia, spanning more than 50 years and underpinned by strong people-to-people ties. Saudi Arabia is one of Ireland’s key economic partners in the region, with significant investment and trade.

In Saudi Arabia, I had a positive meeting with my counterpart, the Foreign Minister, His Excellency Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. We discussed the regional situation and our strong bilateral relations.

I met separately with some members of the Irish community and with accomplished Saudi women, including graduates of Irish universities, where I heard first-hand about the country's social and economic transformation and the contribution Irish expertise is making.

I did not meet with His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The fees charged for consular services are set out in the Diplomatic and Consular Fees Regulations 2013 (S.I. No. 46/2013), the Diplomatic and Consular Fees (Amendment) Regulations 2019 (S.I No. 259/2019), and the Diplomatic and Consular Fees (Amendment) Regulations 2025 (S.I. No. 663/2025).

The table below sets out the fees collected as outlined in Schedule 1 (Miscellaneous Consular Services), and Part 3 of Schedule 2 (Oaths, affidavits and notarial acts) of the Diplomatic and Consular Fees Regulations 2013 (S.I. No. 46/2013), for each Irish Embassy in 2025 and to-date in 2026, in tabular form.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 53 and 96 together.

I note with concern the details in the cases referred to by the Deputies.

The promotion and protection of human rights is an integral part of Ireland’s foreign policy. Ireland urges all States to safeguard the human rights of prisoners and detainees, as set out in the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, also known as the Mandela Rules.

Ireland condemns all forms of torture and ill-treatment, and calls upon all States to combat and prevent the use of torture and other forms of ill-treatment.

During Morocco’s Universal Periodic Review in 2022, Ireland noted our concern that human rights defenders and journalists continue to be targeted for their work and face intimidation, harassment, death threats, criminalisation and physical and sexual assault, including in and in relation to Western Sahara. Ireland recommended that Morocco take all necessary measures to ensure respect for the human rights of all people in Western Sahara.

I note the recent finding of the UN Committee against Torture that Morocco violated the rights of Sahrawi detainees linked to the Gdeim Izik camp protest in Western Sahara.

Ireland's position on Western Sahara has been, and continues to be, guided by the aim of achieving a just and lasting political solution that will provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara.

Ireland's engagement on this issue will also continue to take account of the role of, and the insights provided by, the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura. Any outcome should be consistent with the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations, including the fundamental principle in international law of the right of peoples to self-determination.

Any relevant developments will continue to be kept under close review, including in the context of EU and UN discussions.

The Government's international development policy, A Better World, commits to sustained efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 3, better health and well-being for all. This includes combating HIV/AIDS, as well as accelerating progress toward universal health coverage. Through our aid programme we place an emphasis on reaching those furthest behind, particularly women and girls, and we have a strong commitment to sexual and reproductive health and rights and to strengthening health systems.

We provide support to global health, research and civil society partners, which contributes to the provision of anti-retroviral medicines for people living with HIV and to measures that prevent new HIV infections. Ireland’s largest contribution to HIV response is to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Last year, we announced an increase in funding to the Global Fund, committing €72 million for the period 2026 -2028.

Our support includes financing the procurement and delivery of antiretroviral treatment, expanding access to pre-exposure prophylaxis, post-exposure prophylaxis and other tools to prevent vertical transmission. We support the development of new prevention technologies, supporting community-led services for populations most at risk, and strengthening international standards and health systems necessary for sustained HIV prevention and treatment.

Since 2003, the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has been operating in over fifty countries. Providing anti-retroviral drugs is a key aspect of its programming. In January 2025, a temporary freeze to funding was announced and, since then, a restructuring of its programmes has been underway at reduced funding levels. We have been monitoring developments through our mission network and through our partners.

Details of Ireland’s Official Development Assistance are published in the Irish Aid Annual Report. Information is provided below on the funding we have provided to organisations working, to a significant degree, to provide anti-retroviral medicines for people living with HIV and to prevent new HIV infections, for the period 2023 to 2024. Confirmed data for 2025 will be available in the coming months, and the data for 2026 during 2027.

In June 2018, the Government launched Global Ireland: Ireland’s Global Footprint to 2025. The strategy aims to see Ireland’s global footprint and influence double, including through an expanded and strengthened diplomatic presence.

Under the Global Ireland strategy, 27 diplomatic missions have been opened or have been approved and will open shortly. The Embassy of Ireland in Chile was opened in 2019 and provides the platform from which we are strengthening and deepening our relationship with Peru.

Ireland’s excellent bilateral relationship with Peru has also been strengthened through the implementation of the Global Ireland Strategy for Latin America and the Caribbean, which seeks to enhance relations with the countries of the region across several key areas of engagement.

In 2024, Ireland and Peru marked the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, with the then Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary TD, travelling to Peru as part of the St Patrick’s Day programme and to mark this important milestone.

My Department maintains regular diplomatic contacts with Peru, primarily though our Ambassador in Santiago, who travels there frequently to meet the Irish community and with government, business and cultural contacts. The Department also has regular and positive engagement with Peru through its Embassy in Dublin.

The Government reviews the network of diplomatic missions on an ongoing basis, and will do so in the context of the successor to the Global Ireland Strategy agreed in the Programme for Government. In considering locations for new Missions, a range of factors are taken into account including the needs of Irish citizens overseas, our national, political, economic and trade priorities, as well as the availability of resources.

Much of the Learning and Development (L&D) offering for staff in my Department is centralised through the civil service digital learning hub, One Learning. There are currently two AI-related courses offered through the centralised hub:

Navigating the Guidelines for the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Public Service

AI in the Public Service

Including the above courses, a total of 181 Departmental staff members have completed at least one AI related training programme since January 2024 and the details of those courses are provided in the table below. One staff member has completed two of the below courses. Based on a total headcount of 2,495 civil servants, this represents a completion rate of approximately 7% since January 2024.

Outside of central civil service training, my Department supported two AI training courses over the past year for three colleagues. The first on AI in Diplomacy and Geopolitics was provided at no cost by the European External Action Service (EEAS). The costs of the other course is outlined in the table below.

In addition to these training courses, the Department, as part of its planned roll-out of Microsoft Copilot Chat, has developed guidance for all staff on the responsible, secure and ethical use of AI across the Department and on how approved AI tools may be used to support our work. An accessible, dedicated intranet hub will provide staff with support materials and policy guidance.

The Protocol on Economic Relations or the 'Paris Protocol' was an agreement concluded in 1994 between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization and subsequently incorporated into the Oslo II Accord the following year.

More than thirty years later, the interim arrangements set out in that Protocol continue to be applicable. The Protocol provides that Israel collects customs revenues, VAT and certain other taxes on behalf of the Palestinian Authority which it then transfers to the Palestinian Ministry of Finance, following the deduction of a 3% administration fee.

Palestine’s economic dependence on Israel for the collection and transfer of tax revenues has been exploited by Israel’s partial implementation of the Protocol and withholding transferring Palestinian tax clearance revenues. Israel has not transferred any Palestinian tax revenues since April 2025.

Ireland is deeply concerned about attempts to suffocate the Palestinian economy. Israel must release in full the withheld Palestinian tax clearance revenues to the Palestinian Authority and take all necessary measures to ensure that correspondent banking services between Israeli and Palestinian banks remain in place.

Ireland has been clear that the progress that the Palestinian Authority has made on reforms is being continually undermined by Israel, including through the continued withholding of tax clearance revenue.

There is strong consensus at EU and international level that Israel must release revenues withheld from the Palestinian Authority. I have repeatedly raised this issue with my European counterparts, including at the second meeting of the Palestine Donor Group, which I attended on 13 July in Brussels.

The situation in the Middle East, particularly the Israel-Palestine conflict, will remain a key priority during our Presidency. We will reaffirm the EU’s commitment to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on the two-State solution that guarantees the right of both Israelis and Palestinians to self-determination and to live in peace and safety within secure borders.

We will also seek to ensure that focus is maintained on the dire humanitarian needs in Gaza in EU discussions. Equally, we will ensure that the situation in the West Bank, where unilateral actions which threaten the viability of the two-State solution are causing further instability, remains on the EU agenda.

Ireland enjoys positive bilateral relations with Kuwait, including positive bilateral trade.

In 2024, the latest year for which goods and services trade statistics are available, Ireland traded €1.6 billion in Goods and Services with Kuwait, which was a 956% increase in trade over the previous 10 years.

On 22 July 2026, I spoke by phone with Kuwait’s Foreign Minister, His Excellency Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, and I noted the potential for further economic cooperation.

Ireland is also active in its support to strengthening the EU’s ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Kuwait, in a wide range of policy areas. Most recently, I joined my EU colleagues in a meeting with GCC Ministers in Brussels on 13 July 2026. Ireland supports the negotiation of Strategic Partnership Agreements (SPAs) with each of the GCC countries, which would further facilitate our trade with the countries in the Gulf region.

My officials also maintain regular contact with Kuwait, including though our non-resident Ambassador, based in Abu Dhabi, and through our engagement with Kuwait’s Embassy in Dublin.

I will continue to support the development of our trade relations with Kuwait at a bilateral and EU level.

When a Member State fails to fulfil its Treaty obligations—whether through non-transposition, incomplete transposition, or incorrect application of EU law—the European Commission may initiate an infringement procedure under Article 258 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).

The procedure commences with a Letter of Formal Notice, if initial response is not accepted, the Commission may escalate to a Reasoned Opinion, and, if still unresolved, referral may follow to the Court of Justice of the European Union. At the most serious level, where the Court finds Ireland has failed to comply with its obligations, the Court may impose financial sanctions under Article 260 of the TFEU, whether that be following a second referral to the CJEU (Article 260(2) TFEU), or first referral where the Member State also fails to communicate full transposition measures (Article 260(3) TFEU).

There are currently 54 active infringement cases against Ireland, 39 of which are at the Letter of Formal Notice stage, 7 at the Reasoned Opinion stage, and 8 that have been referred to the CJEU. In the interest of transparency, since March 2026, administrative details, including the stage of the infringement proceeding, infringement number and responsible Government Department, are set out on my Department’s website - www.ireland.ie/en/eu/implementation-of-eu-law-in-ireland/.

It should be noted that the number of infringement procedures against Ireland has reduced steadily over recent years as a result of a consistent and sustained compliance effort. As of 14th July 2026, whilst Ireland has 54 procedures, this compares favourably with the EU average of 70 procedures and to the Member State with the highest number, 117.

Since 2010, Ireland has been referred 24 times in the context of infringement procedures, although 16 of these infringements have since formally closed.

Of the 24 cases listed above, the CJEU imposed fines (either in the form of a lump sum and/or daily penalties) in 6 cases:

Ireland currently has 93 Honorary Consuls operating 54 countries across the globe. This global network is a strategic enabler, and offers a range of supports, including in the delivery of consular services and assistance to Irish citizens that need it, by representing Ireland abroad in areas where we do not have a resident diplomatic mission, and promoting Irish trade and economic interests.

As I am sure you are aware, these appointments are honorary in nature and, as such, are unsalaried and non-pensionable. Despite this, the appointment process is relatively lengthy, requiring an exhaustive interview process, conducted by the supervising mission, and both Irish and host nation political approval.

At present, Ireland has a network of 14 Honorary Consuls operating in the USA, managed by Consulate Generals in Atlanta, Austin, New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco, and overseen by the Embassy of Ireland in Washington D.C.

You will be aware that we are replacing the previous Honorary Consul of Ireland in Charlotte, North Carolina, who, throughout his years of service, provided key support to Consulate General Atlanta, particularly in the context of the provision of assistance to Irish citizens visiting or residing in the region.

The Consulate General in Atlanta, in collaboration with colleagues based in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Dublin, is currently engaged in the recruitment process to appoint a new Honorary Consul in Charlotte, North Carolina. This process is relatively lengthy and, as it is currently ongoing, it would not be appropriate to provide further details at this time.

The number of full time driver posts allocated to the Irish Embassies in Seoul, Beijing and Tokyo in 2025 and to date in 2026 is set out in the table below;

No. of full-time Driver Posts

I understand that descendants and relatives of those who died aboard the Suez Maru have pursued a campaign in the UK to request an official inquiry by the UK government. The campaign is directed towards the UK authorities and seeks, among other things, an apology from the British government in relation to its post-war handling of the case, including decisions concerning the investigation and prosecution of those responsible. This is a matter involving decisions taken by UK authorities in the post-war period, and therefore falls within the responsibility of the British government.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has not received requests from Irish families to engage with the UK government on this matter, and has not raised the issue in its bilateral contact with the UK.

The Government recognises the profound suffering endured by prisoners of war and their families, as well as the importance of remembering those who lost their lives, and preserving the historical record for future generations.

The number of WTE Quantity Surveyors and Senior Quantity Surveyors employed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade as at 16 July 2026 is shown in tabular form below:

The Embassy has, through the course of cultural work, engaged with the Office of the Mayor of Athens and the Municipality of Athens for the Athens International Literature Festival (April), and Refugee Week Greece (June). Details of events hosted by the Embassy in collaboration with the Municipality of Athens, are available on the Embassy’s website and social media channels.

The Travel Emergency service is available to citizens in cases of medical emergency or death of a family member abroad. Proof of emergency is required to avail of this service. First time passport applications are essentially applications for Irish citizenship and, as such, require very rigorous evaluation. First time applications for children are generally expedited through the Travel Emergency service only when there is evidence of the need for urgent and time-sensitive medical treatment for the child in question. In the case of a breastfeeding mother who provides evidence of a need to travel due to a death or medical emergency, the Passport Service seek to assist the mother to travel accompanied by their child.

Applicants with specific queries can contact the Passport Service Customer Service Hub for guidance and support at +353 1 671 1633, or via the webchat service: www.ireland.ie/contactpassportservice/.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade does not own or lease any properties within this jurisdiction. The Office of Public Works are responsible for all the properties utilised by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade within the State.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1993, Ireland has developed close economic, political and people-to-people ties with South Africa. The warm relations between our countries are reflected in South Africa’s invitation to Ireland to participate as a guest country in the G20 during the South African G20 Presidency in 2025. Last year, we also welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa on an official visit to Ireland.

Ireland and South Africa enjoy strong trade and investment flows in both directions. Our Embassy in Pretoria and the state agencies work closely together to promote Irish business interests. This includes local market team collaboration and mutual support to ensure successful trade and investment missions to South Africa.

Given business needs in South Africa, an Enterprise Ireland office is located in Cape Town and IDA Ireland and Bord Bia share a representative based in Johannesburg. The Embassy of Ireland in Pretoria regularly conducts political, economic, community and cultural outreach across South Africa including in the Cape Town area in view of the importance of the city and its wider region.

The Programme for Government sets out an ambition for a new Global Ireland 2040 Strategy as a successor to the current strategy, Global Ireland 2025 which aimed to double Ireland’s footprint and impact by 2025. Under the Global Ireland Strategy 2025, Ireland’s diplomatic footprint has expanded significantly with the opening of 27 new diplomatic missions globally, including two new Embassies in Africa, in Morocco and in Senegal.

There are no plans at present to expand our diplomatic presence across South Africa. Consideration of the location of future new Irish missions, including whether to establish missions in EU candidate and potential candidate countries, will be undertaken in the context of the new strategy. It will include an analysis of how any potential new missions might contribute to the promotion of our economic interests, our values in a changing and uncertain international landscape, the promotion of our culture and the building of stronger links with our diaspora.

On 15 July, the Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2026 completed its passage through the Oireachtas. Once the Bill is enacted and commenced, the importation of goods originating in the settlements into Ireland will be an offence under section 14 of the Customs Act 2015.

The Bill will contribute positively to Ireland’s efforts to uphold and comply with international law, including the findings of the 2024 ICJ Advisory Opinion, as well as contributing positively to Irish and international efforts to prevent unilateral actions that impinge upon the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and upon the viability of the two-State solution.

While Ireland is moving ahead at national level, the Government remains clear that collective action at the EU level is the strongest and most effective route to prohibit trade with Israeli settlements. Ireland is actively pursuing that collective approach at EU level.

Ireland is supportive of an EU-wide prohibition on trade with Israeli settlements. Ireland’s longstanding position is that the EU-Israel Association Agreement should be suspended, or at a minimum that the trade elements should be suspended. A number of other Member States have supported Ireland’s call for stronger collective EU action.

At the July Foreign Affairs Council, I again called for the Commission to table a concrete proposal aimed at prohibiting EU trade with Israeli settlements, with a view to a vote by Member States. It was agreed that this will be discussed further at official level in advance of consideration by Ministers again.

Ireland will continue to press for appropriate EU action in response to egregious Israeli breaches of human rights and democratic principles in the occupied Palestinian territory. Ireland supports full accountability for Israel’s egregious breaches of international law.

During our Presidency, we will seek to ensure that work continues to support efforts to achieve a lasting peace in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on the two-State solution. This includes advocating for a strong response to direct threats to the viability of the two-State solution, including settlement expansion and settler violence.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 70 and 71 together.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade engages with a wide range of interlocutors to ensure that Ireland’s foreign policy, including on the issue of Israeli settlements, is well known and understood.

The Government’s position and, indeed, that of the EU is clear: settlements are illegal under international law and undermine the realisation of a two-state solution.

In relation to the companies referred to by the Deputy, I am not aware of any correspondence issued to, or received by, this Department on the Israeli Settlements (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2026.

The Government’s decision to take forward the 2026 Bill has been the subject of intense discussion. In early July 2025, the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade undertook pre-legislative scrutiny of the General Scheme of the Bill. During this pre-legislative scrutiny stage, the Joint Committee heard from Government officials, business groups, legal and academic experts, as well as Israeli and Palestinian advocacy groups, and representatives of Ireland’s Jewish community. The issue of potential economic impact was also addressed in the Regulatory Impact Analysis prepared in relation to the Bill.

We value these contributions as part of a robust and inclusive debate.

On 15 July, the Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2026 completed its passage through the Oireachtas. The Bill was signed into law by President Connolly on 23 July. Once the Bill is commenced, the importation of goods originating in the settlements into Ireland will be an offence under section 14 of the Customs Act 2015.

The Bill will contribute positively to Ireland’s efforts to uphold and comply with international law, including the findings of the 2024 ICJ Advisory Opinion, as well as contributing positively to Irish and international efforts to prevent unilateral actions that impinge upon the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and upon the viability of the two-State solution.

While Ireland is moving ahead at national level, the Government remains clear that collective action at EU level is the strongest and most effective route. Ireland is actively pursuing that collective approach at EU level.

The policy of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is to operate competitive tendering as standard procedure in order to achieve best value for money. Procurement takes place in the context of EU Directive 2014/24 and supported by the Procurement Guidelines published by the Office of Government Procurement (OGP) 2023, which set out a range of procedures governing the procurement process from tendering through to the award of contracts. Where possible, the Department makes use of Office of Government Procurement Central Arrangements to meet requirements in accordance with Circular 16/2013.

Instances of non-compliance with the requirements laid out in the public procurement regulations are reported within the Department's annual Appropriation Accounts, including instances where the procurement may be compliant but non-competitive. The Appropriation Accounts 2025 are subject to audit.

In 2025, the Department complied with the procurement regulations with the exception of four contracts totalling €167,662 (exclusive of VAT). Two of these contracts had previously been awarded under a competitive tender process and were extended beyond the original contract date and one contract was incorrectly awarded through an OGP framework due to an administrative error. A further contract was found to be non-compliant with DFAT procurement processes. A competitive process in this case has been completed and the contract is now fully compliant. A competitive tendering process is currently underway for the other three cases referenced above.

Information for 2026 contracts sought by the Deputy is currently not yet available.

My Department is actively exploring the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence (AI), while ensuring that appropriate policy, governance and oversight arrangements are in place.

As part of this work, the Department is deploying AI-enabled tools to support staff productivity and efficiency. These include a desktop AI service for staff, the use of which is governed by the Department's AI Policy and is aligned with the Guidelines for the Responsible Use of AI in the Public Service.

The Department also provides an AI-enabled digital assistant for staff involved in passport processing. The assistant provides access to a knowledge base to support decisioin-making and does not have access to passport application records or applicants' personal data.

Oversight of AI-related initiatives is provided through the Department's established governance arrangements, including the ICT Committee and Management Board.

There are no other bodies under the Aegis of the Department.

I fully recognise the difficulties the current process may present for bereaved families and the Passport Service seeks to be as sympathetic and supportive as possible in assisting bereaved parents throughout the application process.

In terms of the process in place, where a child's guardian is deceased, the Passport Service requests the original death certificate of the deceased guardian and a Sole Guardian Affidavit from the surviving guardian confirming that they are the only guardian of the child.

When one guardian is deceased, it may not always be the case that the surviving parent is the only guardian of the child. For example, a guardian can, in a will or deed, appoint someone else to be a testamentary guardian after he or she dies. In addition, step-parents or other family members may have acquired guardianship of a child following the death of a parent. In order to protect the rights of children and their guardians, the Passport Service needs to confirm each time that it has the consent of all relevant guardians before it can issue a passport.

The Passport Service is continuously looking at ways to make the application process easier for applicants and has met with Widows and Bereaved Parents Ireland to discuss their concerns. The Passport Service is currently reviewing its processes relating to the documentary requirements for children of deceased parents.

The Ambassador of Ireland to Thailand provides comprehensive and timely reporting on the full range of issues affecting Ireland’s engagement in Thailand and the wider region, through normal Departmental channels. This ensures that I am fully briefed on relevant developments including in relation to issues affecting Irish citizens; bilateral trade, investment and tourism matters; regional political and security issues such as the situation in Myanmar; progress in EU-Thailand relations, including the ongoing EU-Thailand Free Trade Agreement negotiations, and other matters.

Ireland’s diplomatic network comprises 103 missions across the world including Embassies, Consulates General and missions to multilateral organisations with over 80 Irish Ambassadors. Accordingly, I am in direct contact with Irish Ambassadors and other Department officials according to when business needs to do so arises.

I recognise that the applicant is in a difficult situation. However, the issuing of Ukrainian passports is fully a matter for the Ukrainian authorities and I have no role in the matter.

I would recommend that the person in question reach out to the Embassy of Ukraine in Dublin directly to explain their exceptional circumstances.

Ireland's position on Western Sahara has been, and continues to be, guided by the aim of achieving a just and lasting political solution that will provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara.

The United Nations recognises Western Sahara as a non-self-governing territory under international law, specifically Chapter XI of the United Nations Charter.

On 31 October 2025, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 2797, extending the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara, MINURSO, for one year until 31 October 2026. Ireland is not currently a member of the United Nations Security Council but has taken note of Resolution 2797.

Following the adoption by the Security Council of Resolution 2797, the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, outlined that the resolution provides a framework for negotiations. He further underlined that the resolution “does not prescribe an outcome…which will, as always, in order to be sustainable, be the result of negotiations conducted in good faith.”

The EU Common Position for the EU-Morocco Association Council, which took place on 29 January 2026 welcomed the renewal of the MINURSO mandate, and also welcomed any constructive suggestions that the parties may make in response to the autonomy plan. The text of the Common Position represented a balance of the views of the 27 EU Member States, which differ internally on the issue of Western Sahara.

Ireland's engagement on this issue will also continue to take account of the role of, and the insights provided by Staffan de Mistura. Any outcome should be consistent with the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations, including the fundamental principle in international law of the right of peoples to self-determination. It is in this spirit that Ireland will continue to support UN-led efforts to achieve a solution to this long-standing dispute.

Officials at the headquarters of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and in the mission network continue to be in contact with relevant parties to the dispute in this regard, including representatives of the Polisario Front. Any relevant developments will continue to be kept under close review, including in the context of EU and UN discussions.

Ireland’s position on the embargo imposed by the United States on Cuba is long-standing and clear. It is Ireland’s position that the US economic embargo serves no constructive purpose, and has impacted negatively on the people of Cuba. Restricting the flow of basic goods, and particularly fuel, to Cuba heightens the suffering of ordinary Cubans.

Ireland continually engages on issues relating to Cuba through a range of diplomatic channels, including European Union and United Nations fora. Ireland has consistently voted for UN resolutions calling for the ending of the embargo, most recently last October at the UN General Assembly. On 7 July 2026, at the request of Cuba, the UN General Assembly convened to vote on whether to hold a further debate on the US embargo against Cuba. Ireland was among the 136 UN Member States that voted in favour.

Ireland maintains ongoing dialogue with US contacts on a range of international issues, including Cuba. We communicate Ireland’s positions on the US embargo, the impact of the embargo and the international response on humanitarian crisis and the importance of maintaining diplomatic engagement.

Ireland has also opposed the inclusion of Cuba on the United States’ list of State Sponsors of Terrorism and the associated measures.

Ireland is monitoring the humanitarian situation in Cuba and echoes the UN Secretary General’s deep concern at the growing humanitarian crisis in country. Ireland provides ongoing humanitarian assistance to Cuba through funding to global prepositioned humanitarian funds, which work with local partners to deliver assistance. These include the United Nation’s Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies’ Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (IFRC DREF), and the START Network.

In the past year, the CERF has allocated €6.4 million to UN agencies in Cuba, the IFRC has allocated €1 million to the Cuban Red Cross, and the START Network allocated £270,000 to Care International for their work in Cuba.

Ireland has also committed €100,000 through the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to support Cuba to build capacity and develop a strategy to respond efficiently to extreme events such as hurricanes. Ireland will continue to engage with its humanitarian partners to assess needs.

At EU level, in April 2026, the European Commission released an additional €2 million in humanitarian aid to respond to the humanitarian crisis in Cuba. This follows €4 million in EU funding approved as a regional allocation for the Caribbean, which was primarily allocated to the response in Cuba. In 2025, almost €6 million was provided for disaster preparedness and emergency response in Cuba.

All travel document applications are subject to the provisions of the Passports Act 2008, as amended. That legislation sets out specific requirements that any travel document applicant must fulfil, and issues of which the Minister for Foreign Affairs must be satisfied, before a travel document can issue.

The Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration has issued guidance as to the principles that will be applied by Irish authorities when considering (i) whether a child is an Irish citizen, and (ii) who the child's legal parents and guardians are, for the purposes of dealing with applications for travel documents on behalf of children born outside the State as a result of surrogacy arrangements, including the requirement to receive evidence of a child's genetic link to the commissioning father before a travel document can issue. This guidance can be found here - https://assets.ireland.ie/documents/childrens-issues-surrogacy-guidance-document.pdf.

Issues around surrogacy are complex and fact specific, relating to citizenship, parentage and guardianship. Each travel document application submitted to this Department in the context of international surrogacy is reviewed on its own merits having regard to the requirements of the Passports Act 2008, the above-mentioned guidelines, and the specific factual situation that applies.

With regard to the specific case to which the Deputy has referred, the intending parents should contact the closest Irish Embassy or consulate to the planned place of birth of the child who will provide guidance on applying for a travel document.

All passport applications are subject to the terms of the Passports Act, 2008 (“the Act”). The Act provides a legal basis for the various policies and practices that are applied by the Passport Service in the issuing of passports.

To protect the integrity of the Irish passport, when processing a first time application the Passport Service must validate the identity of the applicant and confirm their entitlement to Irish citizenship. Section 8 of the Act provides for the processing of personal data by the Passport Service as required for the issuance of passports.

To comply with its obligations under data protection legislation, the Department will hold data that has been collected for the purposes of processing an application, only as long as there is a business need to do so, in line with the purposes for which the data was collected.

The Passport Service's Data Privacy Notice provides for data to be held by the Passport Service for 15 years after the date of issuance i.e. the validity of an adult's passport plus five years. After this time, the data is due for destruction and will be destroyed in line with internal guidelines and guidelines for destruction received from the National Archives. A minimum amount of personal data can be held beyond this period for the purpose of fraud prevention in order to maintain the integrity of the Passport Service system.

Therefore, if a renewal application is made more than 15 years after the issuance of a passport, the passport application is treated as a first time application and the applicant is requested to submit relevant supporting documentation. Under Section 7 of the Passports Act, the Passport Service may require the applicant to produce such documents as are considered necessary for the purposes of issuing a passport. In the case of applicants who are applying after more than 15 years since the issuance of their last passport, it is also possible that documentary requirements may have changed since the issuance of their last passport.

With regard to the specific case about which the Deputy has enquired, the Passport Service has contacted the applicant directly to provide assistance.

Should assistance be required with an application, Customer Service agents are available by phone and webchat services from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m., and can be contacted at +35316711633, or via the webchat service: www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/passports/contact-us/.

I spoke with the newly appointed Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Bryant MP, on Tuesday last week, the day after his appointment.

We discussed our main priorities for co-operation on Northern Ireland in the months ahead, in particular the need to work together on legacy matters.

Our discussion was constructive and the Secretary of State is seized of the need to progress implementation of the commitments in Joint Framework on the Legacy of the Troubles, including by advancing the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill in Westminster. That is the best route to legacy mechanisms that are compliant with the European Convention on Human Rights and can secure the confidence of victims and survivors of the Troubles.

I look forward to an early in-person meeting with the Secretary of State to discuss these and other issues, building on the positive co-operation that marked Hilary Benn's tenure as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

This year marked the 52nd anniversary of the Dublin Monaghan bombings and my Department was represented at the commemoration on Talbot Street in May. My thoughts remain with the families who continue to seek the truth of what happened to their loved ones on that day.

I spoke with the new Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Christ Bryant MP, on Tuesday last week, shortly after his appointment.

We discussed our key priorities for Northern Ireland in the months ahead, particularly the need to progress the implementation of the Joint Framework on the Legacy of the Troubles, agreed last year by the two Governments. Reciprocal co-operation is at the heart of the Joint Framework, which commits the British Government to provide "cooperation to Ireland for investigations, inquiries and inquests" in this jurisdiction.

The Government has long-standing requests in place to allow access by an independent, international judicial figure to all original documents held by the British Government relating to the Dublin and Monaghan bombings. These requests arise from successive all-party motions adopted by this House.

I raised the Dublin Monaghan bombings with the then Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn, at the British–Irish Intergovernmental Conference at Hillsborough Castle on 30 April. I will continue to raise the matter with the new Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Bryant MP.

The delay in the publication of the full report of Operation Denton, a review of the Glenanne gang cases, including the Dublin and Monaghan bombings, which was expected last year, has been disappointing. Officials from my Department remain in contact with the Operation Denton team. We hope the report can be published within a reasonable timeframe and that its findings may help shed light on what happened on that awful day.

Addressing the situation of undocumented Irish citizens in the United States remains important for the Government.

This is reflected in the Government’s new Diaspora Strategy 2026-2030 which commits to continuing to support and advocate on behalf of the Irish in the U.S., including those who are undocumented, and to work to forge new legal pathways for people to work, study and live in the U.S. The U.S. launch of this strategy took place in New York in May.

Immigration matters feature regularly in our political engagements with U.S. interlocutors.

Our diplomatic network across the U.S. works closely with a number of partner community organisations and immigration centres in supporting the undocumented. In 2025, the Government provided over €4.5 million to Irish organisations in the U.S., including those organisations and Irish centres that provide trusted information, legal resources and support to those seeking to regularise their immigration status.

The diplomatic network also provides direct consular assistance to individual citizens, including those affected by deportation. Any Irish citizen who requires consular assistance, including in relation to immigration issues, can contact the Embassy in Washington or our Consulates across the U.S. at any time.

Addressing the situation of undocumented Irish emigrants in the United States, and working to secure legal pathways for Irish people seeking to live and work in the US, continues to be important for the Government, as set out in the Programme for Government.

Efforts to advance these issues have been made with successive US administrations.

Earlier this year, I discussed immigration matters in political meetings on Capitol Hill. This focuses on U.S. immigration policy, its impact on Irish communities and the prospects for immigration reform which could assist, inter alia, undocumented Irish immigrants. It is clear to me from these conversations that the challenges faced by such proposals for reform should not be underestimated. Other members of the Government, including the Taoiseach, have also discussed these matters with high-level American interlocutors.

The Government remains supportive of efforts to secure an Irish specific E3 visa programme. This would open up a new legal pathway for more Irish citizens to live and work in the US. However, it is unlikely that undocumented Irish currently in the US would be eligible for such a programme, if secured.

The introduction in February 2025 of a bill seeking to add Ireland to the E3 non-immigrant visa program by Congressman Richard Neal and Congressman Mike Kelly, the bipartisan co-Chairs of the Friends of Ireland Caucus was welcome. However, it has not progressed further since then. The vast majority of U.S. legislative proposals related to immigration reform have stalled in Congress, in the last decade. Nonetheless, we continue to take all opportunities to develop immigration pathways for Irish people who wish to live and work in the United States.

We will continue to provide funding to Irish community organisations, including those that provide trusted immigration information, legal resources and support for those seeking to regularise their immigration status. Some €4.5 million was provided to organisations in the U.S. last year.

The promotion and protection of universal human rights is a cornerstone of Irish foreign policy. Ireland consistently advocates for the protection of civilians in areas of political instability and monitors areas where an escalation in human rights has occurred.

The Embassy of Ireland in Indonesia regularly meets with and supports civil society organisations in Indonesia working on a range of priorities, particularly in relation to human rights. This includes actively engaging with Human Rights Defenders, including those from the Papua region, whilst closely monitoring the human rights situation there and any reports of violence arising from the area.

The recently concluded Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the EU and Indonesia is a broad ranging, rules-based trade and investment agreement which will serve as a dynamic platform for long term cooperation between the EU and Indonesia. During the negotiations, civil society organisations were given a platform to raise their concerns and assessments were undertaken to the impact of the agreement on human rights and other important parameters. The CEPA as it stands contains legally binding commitments on core labour standards and designates the Paris Climate Agreement an “essential element” of the deal. There is a dedicated Protocol on Palm Oil, which links trade access to compliance with EU rules against deforestation, touching directly on land rights in indigenous communities. A Civil Society Forum gives NGOs from both sides a formal voice in how the agreement is implemented.

I believe that this agreement will have meaningful benefits, not just for the EU, but also for the Indonesian people, while containing provisions on human rights.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 86, 97 and 98 together.

On 15 July, the Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2026 completed its passage through the Oireachtas. The Bill was signed into law by the President on 23 July. Once the Bill is commenced, the importation of goods originating in the settlements into Ireland will be an offence under section 14 of the Customs Act 2015.

The Bill will contribute positively to Ireland’s efforts to uphold and comply with international law, including the findings of the 2024 ICJ Advisory Opinion, as well as contributing positively to Irish and international efforts to prevent unilateral actions that impinge upon the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination and upon the viability of the two-State solution.

While Ireland is moving ahead at national level, the Government remains clear that collective action at EU level is the strongest and most effective route to prohibit trade with Israeli settlements. Ireland is actively pursuing that collective approach at EU level.

At the July Foreign Affairs Council, I again called for the Commission to table a concrete proposal aimed at prohibiting EU trade with Israeli settlements, with a view to a vote by Member States. It was agreed that this will be discussed further at official level in advance of consideration by Ministers again.

Ireland will continue to press for appropriate EU action in response to egregious Israeli breaches of human rights and democratic principles in the occupied Palestinian territory. In addition to our advocacy for an EU ban on trade with Israeli settlements, Ireland has also called for the suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, or at a minimum the suspension of the trade elements of the Agreement.

Ireland welcomed political agreement at the May Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) on sanctions against three violent Israeli settlers and four entities, as well as leading Hamas figures, under the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime. The measures were formally adopted on 28 May. Ireland has consistently supported consideration of additional sanctions, including proposals brought forward by the Commission President in September 2025 concerning extremist Israeli ministers, and believes that further measures are required.

During our Presidency, we will seek to ensure that work continues to support efforts to achieve a lasting peace in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on the two-State solution. This includes advocating for a strong response to direct threats to the viability of the two-State solution, including settlement expansion and settler violence.

Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union is an important opportunity for Ireland to shape Europe’s policy direction, lead important aspects of the EU’s work, and showcase Ireland’s engagement, expertise and values at the heart of the European Union. The Government has committed in the Programme for Government to resourcing and delivering a successful Presidency.

In line with that commitment, the Revised Estimates for 2026 included an allocation of €65m to my Department to cover the estimated costs associated with the Department’s responsibility for centrally co-ordinating policy and operational planning for the EU Presidency across Government.

EU Presidency – Estimated Budget

The overall estimated pay cost of €20m covers the additional temporary staffing needs arising in Brussels and in Ireland to deliver on the Council’s legislative and policy agenda and to support policy and operational planning. These staff members are supporting delivery of the significant additional workload involved in the hosting of the Presidency, including the central co-ordination of policy and operational planning for the EU Presidency across Government, the chairing of multiple working group meetings, and the planning and delivery of the high-level European Political Community Summit, the informal European Council and 22 informal Ministerial meetings. My Department will host 4 informal Ministerial meetings (Gymnich, General Affairs Council, FAC Development and FAC Trade) and over 40 official-level meetings and events.

The overall estimated non-pay cost of €45m covers the central operational costs associated with delivery of the Presidency and with the planned extensive meeting programme in Ireland which fall to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. During the Presidency, Ireland will host more than 280 meetings, conferences and events involving representatives from our European and international partners. These Presidency events in Ireland are expected to involve more than 30,000 participants.

Costs associated with these events falling to my Department relating to Summits and informal Ministerial meetings include: the secure transport of high-level delegations, simultaneous interpretation services, catering, accommodation for Ministerial meetings, provision of an online accreditation platform to support secure access to meeting venues as well as host broadcasting services. Other costs include leasing of temporary premises in Brussels and costs in respect of initiatives across the Mission network to promote Ireland and Irish culture during the Presidency as well as branded stationery for distribution to delegates for their use at all Presidency meetings taking place in Ireland. The central Presidency planning team in my Department has sourced these items in line with the relevant public procurement guidelines.

It is customary for modest mementos to be given, usually to senior-level Heads of Delegation at meetings in the host country, to strengthen goodwill and promote domestic craftsmanship. The central Presidency planning team has procured unisex Irish woollen scarves and notebooks for distribution to Ministers at high-level Presidency meetings. In addition, and in line with agreed guidance, host Ministers have the option to choose a small gift to distribute to their Ministerial colleagues and Heads of Delegation at the relevant informal Ministerial meeting taking place in Ireland.

The final costs of the Irish Presidency will not be known until 2027, once all the work is complete and the final bills are paid. In the meantime, every effort is being made to ensure costs are being well managed across all areas.

Under section 15 of the Ethics in Public Office Act (1995), gifts presented to office holders valued in excess of €650 are deemed to be gifts to the State and must be recorded accordingly following valuation through the Office of Public Works. I have not received any such gifts during my term as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade.

No spending on media training or strategic consultants in preparation for Oireachtas Committees was incurred by my Department in this period.

This Department does not have any state bodies operating under its aegis.

My Department has recently published its Policy for the Appropriate Use of Artificial Intelligence, which is fully aligned with the Guidelines for the Responsible Use of AI in the Public Service.

The Policy provides a framework for the responsible, secure and ethical use of AI across the Department and outlines how authorised AI tools may be used to support our work. It has been approved by the Management Board, and its implementation is overseen by the ICT Committee on behalf of the Management Board.

The Policy makes clear that any content produced using AI must be reviewed and validated by a staff member before it is used. In particular, that it is not appropriate to automatically generate material for public dissemination. All official outputs, including responses to Parliamentary Questions, remain the responsibility of the relevant officials and are subject to established quality assurance, clearance and approval processes.

The Policy also provides guidance to staff on the importance of appropriate human oversight when using AI tools in the course of their work.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 91, 92 and 93 together.

I am satisfied that usage of phone and email services assigned to me is in line with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's requirements.

Ireland’s total Official Development Assistance (ODA) consists of funding for programmes through the international development assistance programme, Irish Aid, managed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade; contributions for international development from other Government Departments; Ireland's share of the EU Development Cooperation Budget; and eligible supports for refugees in their first year in Ireland.

Ireland’s total ODA for 2025 was €1.88 billion, €807 million of which was for the Irish Aid programme managed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Total ODA for 2024 was €2.35 billion, €771m was for the Irish Aid programme in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

For 2026, the allocation for the Irish Aid programme is €866.4 million, the highest ever level in the history of the programme. The allocation for 2027 will be announced in Budget 2027.

Detailed information on the distribution of Ireland's ODA is published every year in the Official Development Assistance Annual Report. These reports and their annexes provide details of the levels of ODA support under a variety of headings, including a breakdown by country, modality, and sector. They reports are available online. The Annual Report for 2025 will be published in September 2026.

Ireland has a global network of diplomatic missions that includes Embassies, Consulates and missions to multilateral organisations such as the European Union and the United Nations. These missions are staffed by posted Irish civil servants and locally engaged staff.

As it has not been possible to compile the information requested in the time provided, I will write to you with the information in due course.

The Government has always been of the view that cooperation, engagement and dialogue is the best way forward to address the challenges facing both the EU and US. The Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union as an opportunity to build on the EU-US trade relationship and be ambitious in seeking convergence in areas of mutual benefit. I am determined to make maximum use of this opportunity and will place a priority on maintaining and stabilising transatlantic cooperation. We will drive the competitiveness and simplification agendas to support the transatlantic trading relationship and support the implementation of the EU-US Joint Statement by both sides.

In terms of engagement, I am in ongoing contact with both the EU and the US Administration. On 14 July, I appeared before the European Parliament’s International Trade Committee to take questions from Members of the European Parliament on my trade policy objectives for the Presidency, including on EU-US relations. In addition, last week I held a positive and constructive call with United States Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer, where we discussed the challenges and opportunities in international trade and Ireland’s ambitions for EU-US trade and investment cooperation. On the same day I was in touch with Trade Commissioner Maros Šefcovic about moving the relationship forward and the full implementation of the Joint Statement.

During Ireland’s Presidency, I will host and chair meetings of the Foreign Affairs Council on Trade with EU Trade Ministers, where we will discuss, negotiate, and shape the EU’s trade policy, including with regard to the transatlantic relationship. I will continue this intensive engagement with both EU and US interlocutors throughout the Presidency as I focus on giving as much certainty and clarity as possible to Irish and European businesses the EU-US trade and investment relationship – the largest and most integrated in the world, and valued at €1.77 trillion in 2025.

As recent weeks have demonstrated, uncertainty remains the prevailing character of the global trading environment. As Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, I am conscious of the impact that this changing and often unpredictable landscape can have on businesses, employees and other stakeholders in our trading economy. Ireland is a small, highly globalised economy and it is of the utmost importance that we continue to work collaboratively with these key stakeholders to inform as we navigate these changing tides.

The Government Trade Forum, which I chair, is the primary mechanism by which the Government engages with business and other relevant stakeholders on the latest developments in international trade, including tariffs. I have convened the Forum on four occasions this year. Trade updates, including developments on tariffs, have been a key agenda item, in addition to other focuses on particular sectors and regions.

There is strong commitment across Government to participating in the Forum and engaging with stakeholder. The Forum is attended by Government Ministers and leadership from the key economic state agencies, including IDA, Enterprise Ireland, Bord Bia, Tourism Ireland, Research Ireland, and Intertrade Ireland. Agendas and minutes of the Government Trade Forum are published on the Digital Ireland House, Ireland.ie.

The Forum provides an important platform for the Government to share updates and analysis with key stakeholders on trade developments, including on tariffs, and to hear from those same stakeholders on the challenges faced by real businesses and employees on the ground. The information and real-time feedback received from Members of the Forum is extremely valuable.

In addition to the regular convening of the Forum, I am in touch regularly with Forum members as developments arise. I wrote to all Forum members on Friday on foot of US developments late last week, and through my own Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, and its' agencies, the government engages regularly with the impacted industries.

Undoubtedly, tariffs will continue to be a key item for discussion at future Forums, especially in the context of the publication of the new US tariff regime, effective on 24th July. These tariffs confirm that the US will apply a 10% all-inclusive tariff on EU goods exported to the US and are in line with the commitments under the Turnberry agreement, which includes an all-inclusive ceiling of 15%. This is welcome and shows the clear value of the agreement. It also confirms that there will be no stacking of existing tariffs, which had been an area of concern for us for some of our agrifood exports, including dairy.

I was in touch with both USTR Greer and Commissioner Šefcovic ahead of the publication and will remain in close contact with both. As EU Presidency, the Government will focus on dialogue and on giving as much certainty and clarity as possible to Irish and European businesses.

Since the shift in US trade policy, Government has prioritised engagement with industries affected by US tariffs, particularly in key sectors like pharma and medical devices, aviation, machinery, and agri-food including whiskey and spirits. We will continue this direct engagement with exporters, as well as through business and sectoral representative organisations as they navigate the uncertain trade environment.

In line with this approach, my colleague the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism, and Employment and officials from his Department engage closely with tariff-impacted businesses, enterprise agencies, and representative bodies to assess the impact of US tariffs on Irish industry. Key priorities include monitoring the effects on exports, competitiveness and employment; supporting firms through Enterprise Ireland and other agency programmes; promoting market diversification; and informing Ireland's response.

The focus has been on understanding sector-specific impacts, supporting enterprise resilience, and informing Ireland's position in EU-US trade discussions within the wider EU trade policy framework by working closely with officials in my Department.

The Government is committed to supporting businesses impacted by new tariffs. Enterprise Ireland currently offers a range of competitiveness, export diversification, innovation and consultancy supports that can help companies respond to the impact of US tariffs. For instance, market diversification supports are available to accelerate entry into alternative export markets, including export market research, international market development funding, trade missions, and overseas market support. Additionally, strategic consultancy grant funding can be used for tariff exposure analysis, supply chain reviews, market diversification strategies, pricing and competitiveness assessments, and customs and trade advisory services.

Ireland engages regularly with the Palestinian Authority (PA), at political and official level. The Government is committed to supporting the PA, both politically and financially. We are working actively with the EU and other partners in the region and beyond to create an enabling environment for the PA.

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin met with Palestinian Prime Minister Mustafa at the World Economic Forum in Davos in January. I also met with my Palestinian counterpart, Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian, at the Munich Security Council in February.

Ireland welcomes the establishment by the European Commission President of a dedicated Palestine Donor Group (PDG). The Group brings together ministers and senior officials representing regional and international partners to support the implementation of Palestinian reforms, helping to strengthen its governance, improve its economic resilience, and advance Gaza’s recovery.

I was pleased to attend the inaugural meeting of the PDG last November in Brussels where I had the opportunity to meet with Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa and Palestinian Minister for Finance and Planning Estephan Salameh. I attended the most recent meeting of the Group in Brussels on 13 July, which took place at an important moment for Palestine, and for Ireland, at the outset of our Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The meeting served to showcase the reforms the PA has undertaken and its need for further financial support, and to strengthen coordinated international efforts to provide financial support for early recovery efforts in Gaza. I also had another opportunity to meet with Prime Minister Mustafa.

On 8 April, I announced that Ireland will provide an additional financial contribution of €3 million to the PA for the continued provision of essential public services. The payment was made in May via the EU PEGASE instrument and is part of Ireland’s contribution as a member of the Emergency Coalition for the Financial Sustainability of the Palestinian Authority.

Ireland’s Representative Office to the Palestinian Authority maintains close and regular contact with the Palestinian authorities, and senior officials in my Department are also in regular contact with Ambassador Wahba Abdalmajid and other officials at the Embassy of the State of Palestine. I met Ambassador Wahba Abdalmajid most recently on 15 July.

The Passport Service is responding well to demand during the busy summer period and has issued over 560,000 passport books and cards to date in 2026.

There are currently 110,000 applications in the passport system, which is the usual number for this time of year. This figure changes day-to-day, as passport applications come in, and passport books and cards are sent out to citizens. Of the total applications currently in the system, 54,000 applications (49%) are being actively processed by the Passport Service. 56,000 (51%) are waiting for an additional action by the applicant, such as the submission of required supporting documents.

It is the experience of the Passport Service that it can take weeks and sometimes even months for applicants to submit the documents required in order to progress their application. Applications that are currently with the applicant cannot be progressed by the Passport Service until the applicant takes the required action.

The Passport Online service offers citizens the ability to apply online for their passport 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Over 96% of all passport applications are now made through Passport Online which is available to 100% of all applicants globally.

I would ask the Deputy to encourage their constituents who are travelling this year, particularly those with young children who require their first passport, to apply online and in plenty of time.

The Passport Service is successfully responding to a high level of demand for passports and has issued over 560,000 passports to date this year.

The Government has invested considerably in modernising, improving and protecting the Irish passport, along with the environment and systems that underpin service delivery for citizens. The Passport Service continually works to enhance the service and provide efficiencies for customers under the Passport Reform Programme.

The Passport Service takes every opportunity to remind citizens to check their passport validity. Each year the Passport Service proactively plans for the demand forecasted for the year ahead. Part of this planning involves an extensive public communications campaign to encourage citizens to apply, through Passport Online, in plenty of time for their passport prior to travel. This year's campaign focused on driving awareness amongst citizens, particularly parents of newborns and young children, that Passport Online was the fastest, easiest and most cost-effective way to apply for their passport.

Passport Online allows citizens to apply online for their passport 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is available to 100% of applicants globally. As a matter of best practice, applicants should check the validity of their passport before booking travel.

The Passport Service continuously reviews its processes to identify opportunities to improve customer experience and streamline application procedures. The Passport Service's programme of reform will continue throughout 2026 and into next year, with the delivery of several highly complex and transformational projects that are necessary to future-proof service delivery, enhance the customer experience, ensure business continuity, and safeguard the integrity of the Irish passport. Successful delivery of these projects will ensure that Ireland remains at the forefront of passport processing worldwide.

Last month, I launched a redesigned and modernised new Irish passport book and card. This project has also encompassed the replacement of high-security printing machinery required for passport personalisation.

Along with other upgrades to the Passport Service's systems, in 2027 citizens applying for a passport for the first time or renewing their passport will be able to opt in to receive electronic communications, including passport expiry reminder notices, from the Passport Service.

This service will be opt-in for several reasons. My Department has a statutory obligation from a data protection perspective to only use personal data, which may include home addresses or email addresses, where it is satisfied the data is accurate and up-to-date and would, therefore, be precluded from automatically using addresses used for the dispatch of passports 10 years ago. Unlike car tax or travel insurance, adult passports expire every 10 years and individuals’ circumstances or contact details may have changed in the interim.

The situation in Palestine remains a central focus of my engagement with my EU and other international counterparts. The situation in the Middle East, particularly the Israel-Palestine conflict, will remain a key priority during our Presidency.

Ireland has made clear our view that the EU must act in response to persistent Israeli breaches of human rights and international law. I have repeatedly called for the European Commission to bring forward proposals for a prohibition on EU trade with Israeli settlements, on the basis of the EU's Common Commercial Policy. A number of other Member States support Ireland’s call for stronger collective EU action.

At the July Foreign Affairs Council, I again called for the Commission to table a concrete proposal aimed at prohibiting EU trade with Israeli settlements, with a view to adoption by vote by Member States. We expect further discussion on this issue.

I was also pleased to attend the most recent meeting of the Palestinian Donor Group in Brussels on 13 July, which took place at an important moment for Palestine, and for Ireland, at the outset of our Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The meeting served to showcase the reforms the PA has undertaken and its need for further financial support, and to strengthen coordinated international efforts to provide financial support for early recovery efforts in Gaza. We are working actively with the EU and other partners in the region and beyond to create an enabling environment for the Palestinian Authority.

Ireland welcomed political agreement at the May Foreign Affairs Council on sanctions against three violent Israeli settlers and four entities, as well as leading Hamas figures, under the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime.

Throughout the Presidency, Ireland will continue to reaffirm the EU’s commitment to international law and to achieving a just and lasting peace where Israelis and Palestinians live side by side in two states, Israel and Palestine, in peace, security and dignity within agreed borders based on the 1967 borders.

We will seek to ensure that focus is maintained on the dire humanitarian needs in Gaza in EU discussions. Equally, we will ensure that the situation in the West Bank, where unilateral actions which threaten the viability of the two-State solution are causing further instability, remains on the EU agenda.

The European Union and its Member States are the world’s most significant development and humanitarian actor. The EU’s main current financial instrument for external action and international cooperation is the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI), which was adopted for the EU’s 2021 to 2027 Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF). It was assigned an overall budget allocation of approximately €79.5 billion.

Negotiations for the next MFF, for the period 2028 to 2034 are ongoing. This includes negotiation of the next EU external action budget, the Global Europe Instrument, which will guide EU support for development cooperation and humanitarian assistance, as well as other areas of external action support.

As Presidency of the Council of the European Union, negotiation of the MFF is a central priority for Ireland. Throughout the Presidency, we are committed to being an honest broker; to working constructively with all EU Member States, institutions and stakeholders to agree workable compromises for an EU budget that addresses the many needs and demands of the Union, in a fiscally responsible manner. Financing for official development assistance, through the Global Europe Instrument, is an important aspect of that work.

The overall volume and the balance of priorities within the MFF are some of the key issues for the Irish Presidency to address over the next number of months. Agreement will require compromise by all. Given the early stage of our role, and the phase at which negotiations are at, it is too early to comment on the final overall volume. Ultimately, this will be concluded at the final stages of negotiations by the European Council.

Ireland’s support to Ukraine is unwavering and remains a key focus of my engagements with my EU counterparts, both bilaterally and in Brussels. This war and the threat posed by Russia is not only an existential issue for Ukraine but is a major challenge to the security of Europe.

During our EU Presidency, Ireland is working with our EU and international partners in support of Ukraine and will support efforts to secure a just, comprehensive and lasting peace. We were honoured to host President Zelenskyy in Ireland on the first day of our Presidency.

I welcome the recent agreement reached at EU level on proposals for a 21st package of sanctions against Russia. In reaching this agreement, Member States, under the Irish Presidency, have again demonstrated our strong unity and support for Ukraine and our commitment to the deterrence of Russia.

Ireland is also strongly supportive of Ukraine’s EU accession. The agreement to open Cluster 6 (External Relations) is a key step in this process and an early achievement of the Irish Presidency.

Work on these issues involves significant and ongoing engagement with the EU institutions and other Member States.

Russia’s aggression features prominently at each meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council. Ukraine was a key focus of the first meeting of our Presidency on 13 July, including an event I co-hosted with the High Representative and attended by the Ukrainian Foreign Minister, which had a focus on civilian detainees in Ukraine’s occupied territories.

Meetings of the Council provide an important opportunity to coordinate with my EU counterparts on how we can enhance support for Ukraine to defend against and deter Russian aggression.

Ireland will continue to provide support to Ukraine, continue to support robust targeted sanctions, and will work to work to advance Ukraine’s path to EU accession.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 107 to 109, inclusive, together.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade provides funding to a range of NGOs through a number of grant schemes dedicated to delivering on the Government's priorities at home and abroad. These include support for international development, development education in Ireland, reconciliation on the island of Ireland, emigrant support, humanitarian assistance, and promotion of international peace and stability.

Funding is provided through a number of programmes and schemes, each of which regularly publish details on the NGOs they support and the funding provided:

• The majority of this funding was provided through Ireland’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) programme, Irish Aid, which prioritises support to countries and communities most in need. The Department publishes an ODA Annual Report, which provides a list of partner organisations and is available through the following link: ireland.ie/en/irish-aid/news-and-publications/annual-reports/. The Annual Report for 2025 will be published in September 2026.

• The Emigrant Support Programme, supports organisations across the world to work with the vulnerable and under-represented, and to nurture Ireland’s cultural heritage abroad among the diaspora. A breakdown of organisations that received funding under the Programme and their amounts is provided on the programmes website: ireland.ie/en/irish-diaspora/emigrant-support-programme/previous-funding/.

• The Reconciliation Fund, supports organisations working to build better relations within and between traditions in Northern Ireland, between North and South of the Island, and between Ireland and Britain. A full list of grants awarded in each year is available through the following link: gov.ie/en/department-of-foreign-affairs/services/reconciliation-fund.

• The Shared Island Civic Society Fund, which was established in 2023, supports NGOs and others to promote practical North-South cooperation and engagement through increased cross-border civic society connections. Details of previous rounds of funding are available through the following link: gov.ie/en/department-of-foreign-affairs/publications/shared-island-civic-society-fund-previous-fund-rounds/.

In the five years 2020 to 2024, almost €1.3 billion was provided directly to NGOs under Department funding schemes. It is important to note that the Department’s major development NGO partners will also have accessed funding through UN, EU, and other pooled funds, to which Ireland contributes.

The total number of NGOs supported under these schemes, in each of the 5 years requested, is detailed below:

*Since its inception in 2023 the Shared Island Civic Society Fund supports NGOs across the island of Ireland on a cross-border basis. 107 NGOs have received funding with a total value of €2,998,412. For the purposes of this response they have been accounted for under State based NGOs, although they have by necessity a cross-border partnership presence.

The list of the top 100 NGOs in receipt of Departmental funding in 2024 is set out below.

My Department has a dedicated team from the Marine Strategic Policy Section assigned to the policy and legislative development of the Maritime Area Planning (Marine Protected Areas) (Amendment) Bill. This team is supported by other colleagues, in particular from the Marine Environment and Planning Advisory team as well as the Legal Unit. The Departmental team will work closely with drafters from the Office of Parliamentary Counsel with support from the Advisory Counsel of the Attorney General's Office where appropriate on the detailed drafting of the Bill.

To enable the delivery of MPAs in Ireland’s maritime area and meet our national and international targets and commitments, my Department is leading on and coordinating the MPA LIFE Project funded under the EU’s LIFE programme This project is being undertaken in conjunction with three project partners – University College Dublin, University of Galway and University College Cork. The team will continue to engage with other Departments, public bodies and key stakeholders throughout the drafting process as required.

It is a 9-year project with a budget of approximately €25m, of which 60% is grant-aided by the EU. The project, which began in July 2024, is being delivered through a participatory ecosystem-based management (EBM) process, involving the co-design, co-production and co-delivery of outcomes in close collaboration with all marine stakeholders.

The escalation of conflict in the Middle East has created an energy shock, introducing significant uncertainty into global energy markets. It is directly impacting Irish households and businesses in terms of cost and affordability.

Disruption to shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, alongside heightened risk to regional oil and gas infrastructure, has placed upward pressure on wholesale energy prices at a time when the cost and affordability of energy remain a serious challenge. The Deputy will be aware of recent emergency measures announced by Government and my Department including the deferral and removal of charges and levies on fuels to bring immediate relief.

In terms of ongoing support, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administers a range of grants and supports on behalf of my Department, which help businesses become more energy efficient. Through the ‘Easy Wins’ campaign, Government is emphasising accessible, SME-tailored supports that support businesses to adopt approaches and technologies, many of which are low-cost and quick payback, and that businesses can implement immediately to reduce energy demand and exposure to price shocks. Businesses with significant energy bills can avail of no-cost audits to evaluate their energy use and identify opportunities for savings through the Support Scheme for Energy Audits.

The rapid approval grant schemes operated by the SEAI on behalf of my Department are the Support Scheme for Energy Audits, the Business Energy Upgrades Scheme, and the Non-Domestic Microgen Grant Scheme. These enable businesses to gain near instantaneous approval for audits, grant supports for solar installations, insulation, energy efficient equipment and a range of other measures that can start paying back very quickly and improve resilience and competitiveness.

The Support Scheme for Energy Audits provides support to fully cover the costs of a typical energy audit. The scheme enables businesses to rapidly identify energy saving measures, giving them a roadmap to save money, including no and low-cost steps that can be taken immediately. It is open to all public and private sector organisations that are not already required to carry out an energy audit under the Energy Efficiency Directive.

The Business Energy Upgrades Scheme has been designed for greater accessibility to support small and medium enterprises in Ireland and can give grant approval for a range of ‘off the shelf’ supports in as little as 15 minutes. This scheme is open to all businesses, public sectors bodies, societies and charities and has been growing rapidly since I launched it last year.

The Non-Domestic Microgen Grant Scheme provides financial assistance to help businesses and other sectors to install solar PV panels to generate electricity on site. Grants are available for systems up to a maximum of €162,600 for installations of up to 1000kWp. From its launch in 2022 to May 2026, this scheme has supported 2,791 installations totalling over €30m. There are over 1,400 applications in progress for this scheme, showing that demand is accelerating.

In terms of support for biomethane, funding of up to €200m for a second round of capital grants has been secured through the National Development Plan/Infrastructure, Nature and Climate Fund process. My Department is now putting the grant scheme in place, which will be available to support the development of anaerobic digestion plants in Ireland from late 2026.

Farmers who wish to set up a solar or wind project where all energy is exported to the grid are supported via the Small-Scale Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (SRESS). The SRESS export tariff is designed for farmer, community and SME export only projects above 50kW and up to 6MW. The SRESS offers a simpler route to market for those groups, with fixed tariffs for solar and wind. Farmers can apply to SRESS in one of two ways—on their own (on the same basis as SMEs) or as members of Renewable Energy Communities. Farmers who wish to establish an export project greater than the SRESS limit of 6MW can participate in the utility scale Renewable Electricity Support Scheme auction.

The recently introduced Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) contains a number of measures intended to increase the usage of reusable packaging. These include targets for reusable packaging from 2030, varying from 10% to 100% depending on the sector and usage scenario. Under the PPWR, final distributors in the take-away sector will also be obliged, from 12 February 2028, to give consumers the option of obtaining their products in reusable packaging within a system for reuse.

In the meantime, packaging producers are incentivised through extended producer responsibility (EPR) fees to minimise packaging including through reuse. Repak, the EPR scheme for packaging in Ireland, is developing a Prevention and Re-Use Strategy for packaging, accompanied by a Packaging / Re-Use Innovation Fund.

The Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme (CEIGS) provides funding for innovative projects focused on themes such as waste prevention, plastics, and C&D waste to advance the circular economy in Ireland. By funding these projects and enterprises, the CEIGS directly supports the growth of the circular economy in Ireland and provides high-profile examples of best practice.

Since the first funding call in 2021, CEIGS funding totalling €1.79 million has been awarded to 36 projects covering a wide range of circular economy themes including food waste, plastics, EEE, single-use plastics, packaging, construction, textiles and general waste.

As per the commitment in the Circular Economy Strategy, funding for the CEIGS in 2026 has increased from €650,000 to €1.5 million and a call for applications will be launched in the coming weeks.

The Waste Management (Farm Plastics) Regulations 2001 provide for the introduction of an extended producer responsibility (EPR) scheme for farm plastics. The Irish Farm Film Producers' Group CLG (IFFPG) is a not-for-profit organisation approved under the regulations to run the EPR. The company is owned by its producer members and the IFA.

IFFPG funds its operations from:

(i) producer fees paid by its members which are companies that place farm plastics, films etc on the market; and

(ii) collection fees paid by farmers at the time of disposing of the plastic.

Previously, farmers paid a fixed contribution at the time of purchase of farm plastics, plus a further, lower amount at the time of disposal.

Following engagement between IFFPG and the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Competition, some changes to the scheme have been made:

• IFFPG has removed the obligation on its members to pass the cost of the producer fee down to farmers or other purchasers. Members of IFFPG are now free to decide individually if, and how much of, that cost will be passed down and included in the purchase price of the product;

• While IFFPG continues to require farmers to provide a label code on proof of purchase at collections in order to allow IFFPG to trace legal purchases of farm plastic, the bar code is no longer needed as proof of full or partial payment of the levy, nor does it affect the price charged at the collection point;

• IFFPG now also allows authorised waste collectors to charge farmers less than the collection charge recommended by the scheme.

My officials and I have been kept advised of these developments by the IFFPG.

Government recently approved revisions to a number of Heads of the Heat (Networks and Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2024 which, as a result of extensive stakeholder engagement, had been identified as being necessary to strengthen the Bill.

The revised General Scheme of the Bill has been published on the Government website and may be viewed here:

www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/publications/heat-networks-and-miscellaneous-provisions-bill-general-scheme/

I intend shortly to request that the Bill be submitted for Pre Legislative Scrutiny. In the meantime, officials from my Department are continuing to draft the Bill with support from the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel and other key stakeholders. On completion of that process, Government approval to publish the Bill will be sought.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 115 and 116 together.

I refer the Deputy to the reply to Question No 140 of 7 July 2026. The position is unchanged.

As a requirement of the Climate Act 2021, all 31 local authorities adopted Local Authority Climate Action Plans (LA CAPs) by Q1 2024. In 2022, my Department approved a funding proposal to allocate resources to local authorities to develop and implement their LA CAPs across three phases:

Phase 1: Establishing the evidence base.

Phase 2: Development of LA CAP.

Phase 3: Implementation.

A total of €3.3m was paid to local authorities for Phase 1 in 2022. A total of €4.7m was paid to local authorities for Phase 2 in 2023.

Local authorities are now in Phase 3. My Department signed a 5 year Service Level Agreement with all local authorities for Phase 3 from November 2023 - December 2028. A total of €5.3m was paid to local authorities in 2025 under Phase 3.

The table below provides a breakdown of the funding paid to Wexford County Council to implement their LA CAP. This does not include data for 2020 or 2021 as resourcing for LA CAPs commenced in 2022. Data for 2026 is currently unavailable as local authorities make a claim for reimbursement to my Department in Q4 of each year. In total, to date under the Phase 3 LA CAP, Wexford County Council has drawn down €600,256.

Earlier this year my Department approved a new €1.8m “DZ Demonstrator Fund” for all local authorities in 2026. This non-competitive funding has been provided to support projects and actions which are identified in each local authority’s LA CAP/DZ Register of Opportunities/Implementation Plan. Wexford County Council will be eligible to claim up to €56,500 in 2026 to support DZ measures.

The Community Climate Action Programme (CCAP) provides funding to all local authorities to support and empower communities to shape and build low carbon, sustainable communities. Phase 1 of Strand 1 of this programme provided €24m. Phase 2 of this programme is providing a total of €29.5m. Wexford County Council has been allocated €669,000 in Phase 1 and €746,067 in Phase 2 of the CCAP.

My Department works closely with local authorities to ensure their work continues to be supported and resourced. Engagement is carried out through key areas such as funding the Climate Action Regional Offices (CAROs), the Local Authority Climate Action Training Programme, and providing a support role to the EU Climate Neutral and Smart Cities Mission and Decarbonising Zones.

The value of unredeemed deposits retained by Re-turn in respect of 2024 was €66.7 million, as shown in Re-turn’s Annual Report & Financial Statements for 2024, available at the following location: https://media.re-turn.ie/wp-content/uploads/2024-Annual-Report.pdf

Re-turn has not yet published its Annual Report & Financial Statements for 2025.

Re-turn’s financial statements are fully audited by an independent auditor and approved before publication, and the auditor’s report is included in the publications.

The governance and oversight framework for the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is set out in the Separate Collection (Deposit Return Scheme) Regulations 2024 (S.I. No. 33 of 2024) (the 2024 Regulations), the Ministerial Approval issued to Re-turn under those Regulations and the Code of Corporate Governance for Compliance Schemes.

Regulation 4(3) of the 2024 Regulations provides how the costs of operating a scheme shall be met by the scheme operator, and this includes unredeemed deposits. Funds generated are required to be re-invested in the operation of the scheme. I am however considering whether unredeemed deposits could be used to fund other activities that promote and support Ireland’s transition to a Circular Economy.

Re-turn is responsible for all operational and funding matters relating to DRS and while I have no function in the day-to-day business operations, officials from the Department monitor performance of the scheme closely and meet with Re-turn monthly to review progress. Quarterly meetings are held to discuss strategic priorities and governance matters and this includes an update on unredeemed deposits.

Re-turn is a producer-led and owned, not-for-profit company established by beverage producers to meet their obligations under the Separate Collection (Deposit Return Scheme) Regulations.

In their Annual Reports & Financial Statements, Re-turn provides comprehensive information relating to the schemes performance and operation, including staffing costs. The 2024 Report is available via the following link: https://media.re-turn.ie/wp-content/uploads/2024-Annual-Report.pdf

The 2025 Report has not yet been published.

Re-turn is responsible for all operational and funding matters relating to the deposit return scheme, including staffing of the company and remuneration of those staff. Re-turn is not required to publish a breakdown of remuneration per management level, or of what portion of each operational cost is funded by its different sources of income, including unredeemed deposits.

Re-turn’s financial statements are independently audited and their Annual Reports include a report from the independent auditor.

Re-turn is a producer-led and owned, not-for-profit company established by beverage producers to meet their obligations under the Separate Collection (Deposit Return Scheme) Regulations.

Re-turn has stated its ambition to support long-term circular economy infrastructure through the development of an rPET reprocessing facility in Ireland. In this regard, Re-turn has provided preliminary briefing to me as Minister, along with departmental officials on its plans.

While Re-turn's plans remain at a preliminary stage, the general proposal remains under consideration, with the department considering the various public policy issues that arise, including any legislative amendments that may be necessary.

Under Regulation 4(3) of the Separate Collection (Deposit Return Scheme) Regulations 2024 (S.I. No. 33 of 2024), unredeemed deposits are one of the sources of funding for operation of the scheme. These funds generated must be re-invested in its operation.  I am however considering whether unredeemed deposits could be used to fund other activities that promote and support Ireland’s transition to a Circular Economy.

My Department has been engaging with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel to draft the necessary legislation required to bring forward the legal framework to provide for privately owned electricity infrastructure. Introducing this regime is a priority for the Government. The Joint Committee on Climate, Environment and Energy published their Pre-Legislative Scrutiny Report at the end of April and my Department are considering the recommendations of the Committee as part of the drafting. It is my intention that the Bill will have completed its passage through the Oireachtas as early as possible this year.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as a body under the aegis of my Department, undertakes a range of regulatory tasks relating to the licensing, permitting, consenting or certification of activities that could have an impact on the environment or on human health.

Under Section 86 of the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992, the EPA have considerable scope to attach conditions to a licence to protect human health and the environment. In addition, under Section 83(5)(a)(v) of the EPA Act 1992, the EPA is prohibited from issuing a licence that causes “significant environmental pollution” and is required to take the risk of such pollution into account before issuing any licence.

The EPA is an independent public body established under the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992 and is entirely independent in the exercise of its functions.

For any queries appropriate to the EPA, I note arrangements have been put in place by EPA to facilitate the provision of information directly to members of the Oireachtas who may contact the EPA directly at oireachtasqueries@epa.ie

As Minister, I have responsibility for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a body under the aegis of my Department. The EPA has a role in the licencing and enforcement of specified activities in different sectors, such as industrial, intensive agriculture and waste sectors. The Agency issues licences that contain strict conditions on how an activity must operate to protect the environment from pollution that might arise.

EPA waste licences, for example, typically contain a general nuisance control condition covering odour, noise, dust, litter, vermin, flies and similar impacts. The licence condition compels waste facilities to take measures to ensure it does not give rise to a nuisance such as flies and may contain a condition to monitor the immediate surrounds. Such facilities have an obligation to comply with these conditions and the EPA monitors compliance with these conditions through site visits, audits and review of monitoring returns. Where serious or persistent non-compliance occurs, the EPA can escalate enforcement actions in accordance with its compliance and enforcement policy.

The Environmental Protection Agency is an independent public body established under the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992 and is entirely independent in the exercise of its functions. Arrangements have been put in place by EPA to facilitate the provision of information directly to members of the Oireachtas who may contact the EPA directly at oireachtasqueries@epa.ie.

I would refer you to my colleagues, the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage in relation to Local Authorities responsibilities and the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine in relation to that Department's role in this area.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 124, 125 and 126 together.

The Department remains committed to introducing a repair voucher scheme, as set out in the Circular Economy Strategy and is currently working through the National Reuse and Repair Network on a detailed scoping exercise to determine the most effective way to design and implement the scheme.

The purpose of the pilot voucher scheme is to support a shift in conventional consumer roles from purchasers to stewards of products and devices by reducing repair costs, elevating the perceived value of old devices and signalling societal support for repair, thus supporting everyday device care.

The NRRN, established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is key to bringing together public bodies and national organisations to facilitate knowledge sharing and engagement to support and scale reuse and repair in Ireland.

Through consultation with the NRRN, the scope of the pilot national repair voucher scheme is currently being defined to identify the product(s) category/categories to be included along with the geographical reach. Consideration is also being given to repair service criteria, auditing, effectiveness evaluation and funding mechanisms.

The Department is engaging with those Member States who have experience in the delivery of repair voucher schemes and/or are planning similar pilots. In April of this year, officials and the EPA met with French counterparts to learn more from the French Repair Fund and Bonus Extended Producer Responsibility Schemes.

A well designed voucher which delivers real environmental benefits, provides value for money and that will inform the potential introduction of a national voucher scheme will be delivered in 2027.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 127, 131 and 132 together.

To assist in the achievement of our national and EU climate and energy targets, the Government has committed to supporting the production of up to 5.7 TWh of indigenously produced biomethane annually. A first step to realising this ambition was the publication of the National Biomethane Strategy, which sets out 25 key strategic actions and outlines the necessary supports needed to drive growth across the biomethane sector.

Chaired by my Department, the Biomethane Implementation Group oversees implementation of the strategy and monitors overall target delivery. The Implementation Group consists of relevant Government Departments, Agencies and industry representative groups, including Enterprise Ireland. The Group meets at least five times annually.

A priority action within the Strategy is the development of the Biomethane Environmental Sustainability Charter. The Charter is now finalised and is published on the biomethane policy information page on the gov.ie website.

The Charter sets out best practice guidelines to maximise the benefits of anaerobic digestion (AD), while minimising its environmental impact on land use, water quality, and biodiversity, as well as ensuring a high health and safety standard within the sector. The Charter also enforces strict best practices to prevent methane leakage, ensuring the renewable gas delivers genuine emissions reductions. The charter applies to plants that are in receipt of any form of public funded support or operating under a national AD/biomethane support scheme and producing renewable gas eligible to generate certificates in an obligation scheme.

AD, although a very well-established technology in Europe with over 20,000 plants in operation, has been a relatively small sector in Ireland to date. However, there is a robust regulatory framework in place to underpin the further development of the AD industry in Ireland and harness the benefits of biomethane.

For example, plants involved in AD of animal by-products or derived products must be approved by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Depending on the plants activity, various licences are required from the Environmental Protection Agency. Onsite health and safety is regulated by the Health and Safety Authority and the plants connection to the gas network is regulated through the Commission for Regulation of Utilities and Gas Networks Ireland’s procedures and standards.

AD and other integrated assets are required to undergo a planning process to ensure proper consideration of a range of factors including location, visual impact, land-zoning plans, and ecology. Requirements for these are currently set out through several acts, policy documents, spatial strategies, and development plans. Projects above a certain threshold are also required to complete an environmental impact assessment.

My Department has had engagement on the development of planning guidelines for AD facilities through a sub-group that was established as part of the Biomethane Implementation Group to specifically develop such guidelines. Membership of the subgroup includes my Department alongside the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine; the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland; Teagasc; and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. This document will be non-statutory in nature as there is already a planning framework in place for AD facilities. It will assist planning authorities when assessing planning applications for biomethane plants. The support document is now being developed and is anticipated to be finalised in 2026.

As a newly emerging market, the Irish biomethane sector will require support to stimulate early growth in the industry. A combination of capital grants and the introduction of the Renewable Heat Obligation (RHO) has been agreed by Government to put Ireland on a trajectory to meeting our 2030 ambition.

The RHO will drive demand for biomethane in the heating sector and stimulate domestic production of biomethane. The RHO Heads of Bill have been approved by Government and drafting of the RHO legislation is currently being finalised.

The first financial support package available to underpin the strategy was €40m RePowerEU capital fund administered by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. It involved an open call for anaerobic digestor developers in August 2024 and received 22 applications consisting of a mix of new-build developments and existing biogas facilities seeking to upgrade.

Funding of up to €200m for a second round of capital grants has been secured through the National Development Plan/Infrastructure, Nature and Climate Fund process. My Department is now in the initial stages of putting the grant scheme in place, which will be available to support the development of anaerobic digestion plants in Ireland from late 2026.

Delivery of the Government's target of up to 5.7TWh of indigenous biomethane annually and its use within our energy system will have multiple cross-sectoral benefits for Ireland’s economy, energy security and emissions profile. As such, development of the sector will require a coherent and collaborative approach to policy implementation across all sectors, including energy, agriculture and enterprise.

The Biomethane Implementation Group has been established to oversee implementation of the National Biomethane Strategy and delivery of the 25 key strategic actions to ensure the necessary infrastructure and supports are in place to underpin development of an indigenous biomethane industry of scale.

Chaired by my Department, with close support from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, the Group reports directly to the Heat and Built Environment Taskforce on on-going progress and is comprised of a number of focused sub-groups: Sustainability; Infrastructure; Industry; and Economic Issues. Membership of the Group includes key Government Departments and Agencies, and industry representatives.

The Group continues to engage with action owners and key stakeholders to monitor implementation, and a full progress report on delivery of actions within the National Biomethane Strategy is now published on the biomethane policy information page on the Gov.ie website. It is anticipated that a second progress report on delivery of actions will be published later in 2026

Delivery of the Government's ambition for indigenous biomethane and its use within our energy system will have multiple cross-sectoral benefits for Ireland’s economy, energy security and emissions profile. As such, development of the sector will require a coherent and collaborative approach to policy implementation across all sectors, including energy, agriculture and enterprise.

Biomethane production is still at an early stage of development in Ireland, with two operational biomethane facilities injecting biomethane into the gas network.

There are currently 11 anaerobic digestion plants in construction in Ireland totalling over 700 GWh per annum production, which equates to approximately 12% of our national target. Two of these are at the advanced staged of completing physical connections to the national gas network and are anticipated to be fully commissioned shortly.

There are no individual biomethane generation targets set for 2026 and 2027. Government remains committed to supporting the development of a domestic biomethane industry of scale, and the Biomethane Implementation Group, chaired by my Department, continues to oversee implementation of the National Biomethane Strategy and monitor target delivery. My Department is also working on putting capital grants in place from 2026 to support the further development of anaerobic digestion plants in Ireland.

I visited the Glyde last month and saw first-hand the scale of the environmental damage resulting from this fish kill. The loss of aquatic life and the impact on the river ecosystem is deeply concerning.

After being alerted to the incident, Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) quickly identified the source of the pollution as an agricultural discharge from upstream of Tallanstown in County Monaghan and the discharge was stopped thereafter. As, the incident remains the subject of an ongoing investigation by IFI and, as a file is being prepared for potential prosecution, it would not be appropriate to comment further on the details of the investigation other than to say that pollution of our rivers and waterways is unacceptable, and where breaches of law are established, those responsible must be held fully accountable for their actions.

Transitioning to a renewables led power system is central to the Programme for Government plan to meeting Ireland’s energy security, climate action and energy affordability objectives. Ireland has added 5 GW of new renewable electricity generation over the last decade, with 8.2 GW of renewable generation capacity now available.

My Department does not hold information on the number of renewable energy projects per county, however, data on installed renewables in general is available from the SEAI's latest Energy In Ireland Report which is available here: www.seai.ie/sites/default/files/publications/Energy%20in%20Ireland%202025%20v1.0%20complete.pdf

More information on the current installed renewable electricity capacity is also publicly available online from EirGrid and ESB Networks and from the Regional Development Monitor at: https://rdm.geohive.ie/pages/6988931ceead4cb4a56498b3337023e7#LowCarbon2

The data can be filtered per year and county.

The protection of peatlands and other environmentally sensitive habitats is primarily a matter for the National Parks and Wildlife Service under the remit of my colleague, the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage (M/HLGH).

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is responsible for designating, managing and setting scientific conservation objectives for Natura 2000 sites which include Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs), Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs). These areas include a range of environmentally sensitive habitats, as well as peatlands and blanket bogs.

It should be noted that the NPWS also has overall responsibility for coordinating the implementation of the Nature Restoration Regulation, as well as development of a Nature Restoration Plan.

The restoration and protection of these sites and habitats is a key objective of the Climate Action Plan and, as such, my Department has also supported this objective. For example, my Department is the administrator of the Enhanced Decommissioning, Rehabilitation and Restoration Scheme (EDRRS), which involves the enhanced rehabilitation of BnM peatlands that were previously used for energy production over several decades. To date 24,500 hectares of peatland have been rehabilitated under this scheme.

In addition to this, commercial peat extraction continues to be a regulated activity. My Department and the National Parks and Wildlife Service commissioned a guidance document "The Regulatory Framework Applying to Peat Extraction - A Guidance Document" which is available on gov.ie.

This document contains information regarding the regulatory framework (primarily that aspect which relates to the Planning System which applies to peat extraction). Planning policy and legislation in that regard are also matters for the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

The revised Waste Framework Directive that entered into force in October 2025 includes a strengthened focus on surplus food donation and redistribution. This includes that Member States shall, after consulting with food banks and other food redistribution organisations, take measures, where appropriate, on the basis of any existing national food donation system, to ensure that economic operators identified by Member States as having a significant role in the prevention and generation of food waste, propose donation agreements to food banks and to other food redistribution organisations so as to facilitate the donation of unsold food that is safe for human consumption, and at a reasonable cost to economic operators. Ireland is required to transpose the revised Directive into national law by June 2027.

To inform policy development on surplus food redistribution and donation, the Department has funded the Food Circle Project, a two-year grant agreement that was established with FoodCloud in August 2024. Supported by the Circular Economy Fund, key deliverables for this Project have included a number of reports and associated recommendations which can be accessed at the following link: www.food.cloud/foodcircle.

The draft National Food Waste Prevention Roadmap 2026-2028, recently published by the Department for public consultation, also includes a range of proposed measures related to food donation and redistribution.

The Food Circle Reports, the final National Food Waste Prevention Roadmap, and ongoing consultation with food banks and other food redistribution organisations in line with the revised Waste Framework Directive will inform the measures that are needed in order to fulfil requirements related to surplus food donation agreements.

The draft National Food Waste Prevention Roadmap 2026-2028, recently published by the Department for public consultation, recognises that monitoring, measurement and reporting of food waste is needed in order to reduce food waste effectively.

The Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy 2026-2028: Accelerating Action, published by the Department in February, highlights actions that will be considered in the next Roadmap and includes the potential introduction of proportionate reporting measures, consistent with EU requirements, in consultation with affected sectors.

Proposed actions included in the draft National Food Waste Prevention Roadmap 2026-2028 that relate to food waste reporting by key sectors and economic operators include:

• examining options for the introduction of proportionate reporting measures for key sectors and economic operators identified as having a potentially significant role in the generation and prevention of food waste;

• identifying key sectors and economic operators, who have a significant role in the generation and prevention of food waste, to be subject to proportionate food waste reporting measures.

This proposed approach to food waste reporting is consistent with the Whole of Government Circular Economy Strategy 2026-2028, and the revised Waste Framework Directive that entered into force in October 2025 which requires Member States to ensure that all relevant actors in the food supply chain are involved proportionately to their capacity and role in preventing the generation of food waste along that supply chain, with a specific focus on preventing a disproportionate impact on small and medium-sized enterprises.

The draft Roadmap commits to consulting key sectors and stakeholders as part of the consideration of the introduction of proportionate reporting measures. This recognises the need to balance improved data collection with avoiding unnecessary administrative burdens, particularly for smaller businesses.

No final policy decision has been taken in relation to mandatory food waste reporting by key sectors and economic operators. The public consultation on the draft Roadmap will run until 4 September and the submissions received will inform the finalised Roadmap, which will be published later this year.

My Department responded to the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation request for efficiencies and reforms required to implement the levy that will apply to my Department’s current expenditure in 2027. Significant efficiency measures have already been implemented across my Department to ensure that resources are used effectively and these measures will continue into 2027.

Full details on my Departments financial allocation for 2027, taking account of the levy reduction and the upcoming Estimates process, will be finalised and announced in the Budget. Detailed allocations at programme and subhead level will be set out in Revised Estimates Volume (REV) in December.

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland's (SEAI) Micro-generation Support Scheme (MSS) provides grant support of up to €1,800 for domestic solar PV installations. Grants are available to support installations to houses built and occupied prior to 2021.

Since the introduction of the MSS domestic grant in 2022, the scheme has gone from strength to strength. 10,000 homes received support in 2022 followed by over 22,000 in 2023, and over 28,000 in 2024. Last year, over 33,000 installations were supported. This has continued into 2026 with over 26,000 applications for the Solar PV Scheme received by the SEAI and over 15,000 installations to end June 2026.

The current scheme built on the success of a previous pilot version of the grant scheme. As part of the transition between schemes, the eligibility criteria were changed from those houses built prior to 2011, to those built prior to 2021. This increased the number of homes eligible for grant support.

New build homes must follow Part L of the Building Regulations which relates to the energy performance of buildings requirements. Solar PV can help meet these requirements, but they can also be achieved through use of other measures such as heat pumps and solar heating. The homeowner can decide how best to meet these standards. The cost of installing solar PV systems during the new build process is significantly lower than for existing homes. As set out previously, targeting the grant scheme at older homes makes the most efficient use of limited Exchequer funding.

The Deputy may wish to note that new homes can obtain a zero percent VAT rate for the supply and installation of solar panels. This is a permanent change that came into effect from 1 May 2023. This measure underlines the Government’s commitment to help households save money on their energy bills.

The cross-Government National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT), chaired by my Department, was established in June of last year to identify and implement measures to enhance energy affordability for households and businesses. The first report of the NEAT, published last November, helped to inform key aspects of Budget 2026 including new measures to further support householders contained in the National Residential Retrofit Plan 2026.

The NEAT is now working intensively to prepare an Energy Affordability Action Plan. This work includes examining how to support increased uptake of home energy efficiency upgrades, in particular for lower-income households at risk of energy poverty, and continued development of the SEAI retrofit schemes in line with commitments in the Programme for Government. The Action Plan will be focused on measures to support households and businesses to meet their energy costs and will be submitted to Government in Q3 2026.

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the attached document.

My Department does not record procurements of products or services by country of purchase and has no record of payments made to suppliers based in Japan in the period in question.

Addressing energy affordability is a priority for this Government. That is why in June of last year, my Department established the National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses while delivering key renewables commitments, and protecting security of supply and economic stability

The First Report of the Taskforce informed key aspects of Budget 2026 including:

• a 15% or €5 per week increase to the Fuel Allowance, providing an additional €140 to recipients during the annual Fuel Allowance season;

• eligibility for the Fuel Allowance was also expanded to include those in receipt of the Working Family Payment;

• an extension of the reduced VAT rate of 9% which is applied to gas and electricity to 2030. This provides clarity and certainty to energy consumers and reduces energy bills for households by up to €100 per year; and

• the €400 income tax disregard for households involved in microgeneration was extended for a further three years to end-2028.

A record €640 million has also been provided to support the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland's (SEAI) residential and community energy upgrade schemes this year. This includes €340 million for the Warmer Homes Scheme which provides fully funded upgrades for households in energy poverty. The allocation means that more funding than ever will be available to make homes warmer, healthier, more comfortable and less expensive to heat. Since 2019, SEAI schemes have provided over €1.8 billion in support to homeowners for over 268,000 home energy improvements, including over 36,000 fully-funded upgrades for households at risk of energy poverty (under the Warmer Homes Scheme).

The NEAT continues to work intensively on an Energy Affordability Action Plan to be submitted to Government in Q3 of this year. This Action Plan will be focused on short, medium and longer term measures to support households and businesses to meet their energy costs and will be built around 4 key pillars:

•addressing the price of energy;

•sustainable demand and enhancing flexibility;

•targeted supports to address energy poverty and customer protections; and

•targeted supports for energy affordability for businesses.

To facilitate this robust and coordinated cross-Government response, a number of NEAT subgroups have been established, bringing together officials from a wide range of Government Departments and Agencies. A period of intensive engagement to refine options for consideration by the Taskforce is currently underway, with subgroups meeting on an ongoing basis.

This work is also being supported by structured engagement with relevant external stakeholders. This included a targeted stakeholder consultation session on tackling energy poverty. Consultation sessions with business groups and with the Electricity Association of Ireland and retail electricity suppliers have also taken place in recent weeks.

Ultimately, the turndown of renewables and use of excess electricity is a system wide issue to be addressed. Maximising the efficiency of all our renewables will contribute to avoiding expensive imported energy.

My Department has a leading role in the development of an integrated strategy on the use of renewable surplus energy, which will specifically coordinate technical grid limits (SNSP), flexible demand, storage deployment, and interconnector flows to maximise the use of renewable electricity.

Preparatory work is underway in preparing a draft roadmap. In conjunction with key stakeholders, including the SEAI, CRU, EirGrid and ESB Networks, my Department is examining options to maximise the most efficient use of renewables on the electricity system.

The SEAI already supports significant research on energy poverty and its drivers through the National Energy Research Development and Demonstration (RD&D) Funding Programme. The programme invests in innovative energy RD&D projects which contribute to Ireland's transition to a clean and secure energy future. Any new pilots and initiatives that come forward would build on existing research and learnings from the broader work of the Department.

Dispatch Down is not a matter in which I, as Minister, have any operational function.

Dispatch down includes:

• curtailment, the reduction in output of generation units because of system wide issues;

• constraint, the reduction in output of generation because of local issues; and

• oversupply, where generation exceeds demand.

EirGrid, as Transmission System Operator, has responsibility for the management of dispatch down and any associated compensatory payments. EirGrid is independent of me as Minister in such matters and operates under the supervision of the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) which is an independent regulator, accountable to a Committee of the Oireachtas. The CRU has responsibility for, inter alia, the regulation of the electricity market and the economic regulation of the electricity system operators, including EirGrid. The legislative framework for dispatch down comes from European law, specifically Article 13(7) of the Electricity Regulation 943/2019.

In order to obtain the information which the Deputy seeks he may wish to engage directly with EirGrid who can be contacted at oireachtas@eirgrid.com

That said, Ireland is fully committed to an ambitious and just green transition which is essential not only from a decarbonisation and environmental perspective, but is also needed to reduce our reliance on expensive and volatile imported fossil fuels.

This involves adopting appropriate new technologies and initiatives to support the integration of increasing volumes of renewables and further incentivise and support the use of surplus energy to reduce the amount of wasted energy. To this end, the Programme for Government commits to the use of surplus renewable energy to alleviate pressures experienced by those in energy poverty.

Imperfections and dispatch down are major challenges facing electricity systems, like ours, that are increasingly powered by renewables. These complex issues can only be addressed by taking a systematic and multi-faceted approach requiring investment in grid, storage and demand flexibility.

Officials in my Department have engaged extensively with relevant stakeholders to identify areas for cooperation in relation to tackling energy poverty and renewable energy waste.

There are a number of key measures currently underway to address these issues including grid enhancement and interconnection, development of the National Energy Affordability Action Plan (NEAT), the Electricity Storage Policy Framework, the National Hydrogen Programme, smart grid and demand response initiatives, and district heating solutions among others.

My Department will also lead the development of an integrated strategy on minimising the turndown of renewables. This will involve stakeholders from across the energy sector and will: (i) examine the underlying factors which lead to the turn down of renewables; and (ii) identify ways to absorb excess renewables at times of high output. It is expected that this work will overlap with other initiatives my Department already has up and running including the NEAT and the development of a new Climate Action Plan.

Figures in relation to unredeemed deposits are published by Re-turn in their Annual Report and Financial Statements. Re-turn has not yet published its Annual Report & Financial Statements for 2025, but when published, they will include a final audited figure for the level of unredeemed deposits during 2025. Final, audited figures for unredeemed deposits in 2026 will be available next year.

Unredeemed deposits are one of the income sources for operating the scheme, in line with the Separate Collection (Deposit Return Scheme) Regulations 2024 (S.I. No. 33 of 2024). Since the scheme was established, a significant level of unredeemed deposits has been invested in the development and growth of the scheme.

Re-turn is responsible for all operational and funding matters relating to DRS, and while I have no function in the day-to-day business operations, officials from the Department monitor performance of the scheme closely and meet with Re-turn monthly to review progress. Quarterly meetings are held to discuss strategic priorities and governance matters and these include updates on unredeemed deposits and other financial matters.

Unredeemed deposits reflect early-stage behaviour. This is normal and expected for DRS schemes globally. As return rates rise, unredeemed income will drop, and the scheme will rely more on producer fees and material sales for income.

With regard to community and environmental initiatives, by the end of 2025, more than 4,500 community groups nationwide had registered with Re-turn for support in raising money for local causes. This support includes the provision of bins and how-to-guides but does not involve financial transfers.

Hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) is a bioliquid which can be used as a renewable energy source and which, in a transport context, is classified as a biofuel. HVO is currently available for consumers to purchase for use in both transport and heating. The Climate Action Plan includes a range of measures to address the use of fossil fuels in heating systems in buildings, with the National Heat Study, published by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), containing the detailed analysis that is informing the development of options to decarbonise the heating and cooling sectors in the period to 2050.

The National Heat Study considered a number of potential decarbonisation options for a wide range of dwellings and business premises. These included the use of liquid biofuels such as HVO, solid biomass, biogases, as well as heat pumps and district heating networks. The recommendation of the heat study is that heat pumps are the optimal decarbonisation path for heating systems, with district heating also being an option that can be widely deployed. However, the National Heat Study also recognised the potential role for sustainable bioenergy for buildings that require alternative routes to decarbonisation, and that is being considered as part of a suite of measures to decarbonise heat.

The Programme for Government 2025 contains a commitment to targeting older homes still using oil to switch to renewable heating systems and to consider the use of sustainable bioliquids to reduce emissions from existing home boilers where deep retrofits are not possible in the short term. These commitments are informing the work underway to complete a Roadmap to Phase Out Fossil Fuel Heating Systems, which will set out Ireland's overarching approach to decarbonising the heat sector.

Under current proposals the Renewable Heat Obligation (RHO) will obligate suppliers of all fossil fuels used for heating purposes to ensure a proportion of the energy they supply is renewable. As such, all renewable fuels, including HVO and other bioliquids used for heat that satisfy the sustainability criteria of the Renewable Energy Directive, will be considered eligible for certification under the scheme.

Priority drafting of the RHO Bill 2025 is now nearing completion with the expectation that the RHO Bill will be finalised shortly.

My Department is guided by "Guidelines for the Responsible Use of A.I. in the Public Service" (DPENDR 2025) and by "Securing AI Adoption in the Public Sector Cyber Security Guidelines for AI Deployments" (NCSC 2026).

The Department has previously piloted the use of AI for a limited number of users while finalising an AI framework for the legal, secure and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) within the Department.

As of July 2026, my Department launched its AI Policy and is currently in the process of rolling out a comprehensive training programme on the use of AI internally, in line with our obligations under Article 4 of the EU AI Act. Ahead of the policy and training programme being rolled out, the Departments ICT and Learning and Development teams helped co-deliver an AI masterclass training session to the DCEE Management Board.

My Department had identified two mandatory training courses that staff must complete before using AI within the organisation. Two of these courses are centrally provided through OneLearning platform and focus on foundational AI literacy:

• AI in the Public Service (e-learning).

• Navigating the Guidelines for the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Public Service (e-learning).

These courses (along with completion of Cyber Security and Data Protection training) are prerequisites ahead of any staff being granted use of any internal AI tools.

In addition to these literacy courses, the Department will also provide access to an AI Fluency course. This training goes beyond awareness and responsible use, concentrating on the practical and strategic application of AI to solve problems, support decision making, and embed AI effectively into daily workflows.

During the development of the DCEE AI Policy and training programme, ICT staff within the Department engaged with the above training, and have also attended conferences/webinars/masterclasses, etc. to explore and better understand the potential for, and impact of, AI.

Statistical information on the above-mentioned training is included in appendix one.

In relation to State Bodies under the aegis of my Department, the information sought in the Question is an operational matter for each of the State bodies concerned and, as such, it is not information held by my Department. It is suggested that the Deputy contact the Bodies directly in relation to this matter. Contact details for each body is set out in the attached document.

Action 15 of the National Hydrogen Strategy is being progressed by the working group for hydrogen safety and regulation (WG1) under the National Hydrogen Programme Taskforce. My Department has commissioned Arup to produce a report which will review the existing legislative and regulatory frameworks relevant to hydrogen safety and make recommendations on how these frameworks might be adapted to ensure they are fit-for-purpose as the hydrogen sector in Ireland grows. I anticipate that the findings of the report will be presented to the Taskforce at its next meeting.

In accordance with Action 15, the focus of this working group is hydrogen and there are no plans to extend its remit to include natural gas or biomethane.

The existing legislative and regulatory frameworks for natural gas and biomethane already encompass storage activities for these gases. For example, under the Gas (Interim)(Regulation) Act, 2002, gas storage operators are required to have a licence issued by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) and must submit a safety case under the Gas Safety Framework developed by the CRU. In 2018, the CRU updated their Safety Case Guidelines to incorporate “renewable natural gas” which includes biomethane. Further details about the role and functions of the CRU in respect of gas safety are available on the CRU website: www.cru.ie/regulations-policy/safety/gas-safety-framework/

The Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) is an independent corporate entity having full responsibility under law for the performance of its functions, including assessment processes in respect of maritime area consents.

The Minister, under Section 9 of the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021, is prohibited from exercising any power or control in relation to any particular MAC or Licence application to the MARA.

Arrangements have been put in place by MARA to facilitate the provision of information directly to members of the Oireachtas. In that context, I would ask you to refer your query directly to MARA at the email provided for Oireachtas queries: oireachtas@mara.gov.ie.

The Solar PV for the Medically Vulnerable Scheme is a targeted scheme for the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels for customers/households who are registered on the life support category of the Priority Services Register. These homes have a dependence on electrically powered equipment, including medical equipment, life protecting devices and assistive technologies such as dialysis machines and respirators. As such, these households may have a higher energy demand than the average user and this scheme is designed to go some way towards helping to reduce those energy costs.

To end June this year, (727 households have received an upgrade under the scheme since last year. This year targets a major expansion of delivery with an allocation of €11.7 million to support over 1,900 homes.

The scheme is operated by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) in conjunction with energy suppliers, with each energy supplier contacting their own eligible customers directly, in line with the work plans for their solar PV installers. Eligible households can avail of a fully funded 2kWp solar PV system, including survey/design, supply, installation, and the post works BER.

It is important to note that suppliers, who manage the administrative aspects of the scheme under the SEAI, issue offers to eligible homeowners. Each participating supplier received an allocated amount of funding under their Memorandum of Understanding with the SEAI and contacts eligible households in batches, based on operational capacity. The administrative aspects of the scheme are a matter for the energy suppliers under their Memorandum of Understanding with the SEAI.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 151, 152, 153 and 154 together.

The Programme for Government commits to an annual RESS auction programme. Each auction is designed to maximise participation and competition in the auction while ensuring strong consumer protection and value for money is achieved. The Terms and Conditions of each auction are developed based on a consideration of the outcomes of an extensive stakeholder engagement process and analysis of the available evidence base to ensure the scheme design remains responsive to evolving market conditions, system needs and policy considerations.

The Terms and Conditions for the sixth Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS 6) auction were recently published and are available on my Department's website at www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/publications/renewable-electricity-support-scheme-6-ress-6/

As part of the public consultation and stakeholder engagement process which informed the auction design for RESS 6, my Department considered a range of proposed design features, including changes to the indexation provisions and support duration. No change was introduced to either the indexation provisions or the support duration for RESS 6 due to the lack of a convincing evidence base that such changes would result in reduced bid prices, improved deliverability of projects or better value for money for Irish electricity consumers. In some cases, the data suggested changes in either indexation or support duration would cost consumers significantly more in the long run.

A summary of my Department's response to the issues consulted on for RESS 6 and the changes introduced for the upcoming auction is also available at www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/publications/renewable-electricity-support-scheme-6-ress-6/

As always, a range of issues including those mentioned above will be considered during the consultation and design process for the Terms and Conditions of future RESS auctions.

Under the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021, recruitment of staff by the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA) is subject to sanction from the Minister, as well as the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation.

In respect of 2026, the MARA has a budget of €5.59m toward payroll related costs and sanction for 69 staff. Allocation of these approved staff is a matter for the MARA.

Arrangements have been put in place by MARA to facilitate the provision of information directly to members of the Oireachtas. The email provided for Oireachtas queries is oireachtas@mara.gov.ie.

Funding from the Exchequer is not provided for electricity grid reinforcement.

The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) is responsible for the economic regulation of the electricity network companies in Ireland. The CRU carries out this role by administering a five-year price control regime, reviewing and updating annual revenues, setting the network tariffs for use of the system and reviewing and approving other network charges.

The CRU approves price reviews on a five yearly basis. These price reviews set out the operating and investment programmes for the electricity network and determine the revenues that the network companies, ESB Networks and EirGrid, can recover from electricity customers through network tariffs.

The CRU Price Review 6 (PR6) decision will see up to €18.9 billion invested in our electricity system over the coming 5 years, the largest ever electricity grid investment. This is a landmark investment to upgrade and reinforce Ireland’s existing electricity infrastructure and deliver critical new infrastructure to meet future demand.

PR6 will unlock additional electricity capacity through an ambitious transmission and distribution capital programme, including 29 transmission priority projects and 31 distribution priority projects.

Government is supporting the Price Review 6 (PR6) programme with an unprecedented €3.5 billion equity investment in Ireland’s electricity infrastructure, as committed to in the revised National Development Plan in July 2025. This is the largest single investment in the country’s electricity network in its history.

€1.5 billion was transferred to ESB in December 2025, to support the financing of our onshore electricity infrastructure during PR6. A further €2 billion will be invested in EirGrid to supportEirGrid’saccess to the capital markets and fund its investment in offshore transmission infrastructure under PR6.

I fully expect, given the increasing demand for electricity over the next decade, that similar levels of investment in our grid infrastructure will be needed in the 2030s, and my officials are working to ensure the companies are structured and funded appropriately to support that investment.

Investing in and ensuring a fit for purpose electricity grid is a priority for Government. However, the development of the electricity grid, including the selection of projects to be delivered, are matters for the respective Distribution(ESB Networks) and Transmission (EirGrid) System Operators, who are accountable to the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU).

The CRU oversees investment in the electricity system through the Price Review process and approved Price Review 6, setting out the up to €18.9 billion which EirGrid and ESB Networks will invest over the period 2026-2030. EirGrid and ESB Networks determine the capital projects to be delivered during Price Review 6.

The Deputy may wish to contact ESB Networks and EirGrid directly in the first instance via oireachtas@esb.ie and oireachtas@eirgrid.com regarding the matter raised in the Question. The CRU may also be contacted via oireachtas@cru.ie should the Deputy require further information regarding the Price Review process.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 158, 159, 160 and 161 together.

In line with the Electricity Storage Policy Framework for Ireland and the 10 Government actions contained within it, my Department, in conjunction with the System Operators and the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU), are focused on removing the barriers to the development of electricity storage assets and their incorporation on to the Irish grid system.

In line with Action 5 of the Policy, in October 2026 EirGrid will implement the CRU decision on electricity storage network charges and will commence an all-island aligned 'Generation Use of System Charge' approach, removing volumetric (pass-through) charges for electricity storage systems on the grid.

As part of Europe’s transition to climate neutrality, the EU Innovation Fund provides significant support for emerging energy storage technologies. Financed through revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System, it offers grants for the commercial deployment of new technologies that may enhance grid stability and renewable integration and ultimately contribute to the EU’s Green Deal and RE-Power-EU objectives.

In line with Action 6 of the Policy, ESB Networks have developed a 'route to market' to deliver 500 MW of Demand Flexibility Products on to the Distribution system. An initial tender process is now complete with the first contracts for 42 MW signed in Q2 2026. A second tender process is expected in Q4 2026.

EirGrid, in conjunction with the CRU, are also developing a 'route to market' for Long Duration Energy Storage (LDES). The second of two public consultations is expected in Q4 2026 with the first LDES tender and contracts expected in 2027. Contracted LDES assets will be expected to be connected to the transmission grid by the end of 2030.

Five Phase 1 offshore wind projects are presently in development off our east coast, with planned capacity of 3.8 gigawatts. All five have submitted planning applications and first determinations from An Coimisiún Pleanála are anticipated before the end of 2026, with the others to follow in 2027. Subject to planning approval, I anticipate that some of these projects will be in construction by 2030 and operational in the early 2030s.

The 900 megawatt Tonn Nua project, awarded in 2025 off the coast of Waterford, is expected it to be energised by 2033. Tonn Nua was the first of four sites to be brought to auction from the South Coast DMAP. My Department is making preparations to bring the remaining three South Coast DMAP sites to auction over the next few years.

Separately, my Department is advancing the National DMAP process which will designate sufficient additional sites around our coast to facilitate our longer term target of 20 gigawatts.

The international market situation for offshore wind has changed much since Ireland's first offshore wind auction in 2023. Prices in the supply chain have increased, many offshore wind developers have rationalised their operations and now have a more risk averse investment outlook. Many jurisdictions have seen failed auctions for various reasons. This changed market environment presents challenges for all countries in progressing their offshore wind ambitions. My Department is maintaining a regular dialogue with the industry and our ongoing offshore wind projects as we navigate these challenges.

While this more challenging international market environment has the potential to impact on the timing of achievement of particular milestones in our offshore wind ambitions, Government remains committed to achieving those ambitions.

The recent global energy shocks underline the importance of accelerating the deployment of indigenous renewable energy sources such as wind and solar in tandem with supporting infrastructure, particularly the delivery of upgrades to the electricity network and electricity storage technologies.

Three cross-Government taskforces, the Accelerating Renewable Electricity Taskforce (ARET) for onshore renewables, the Offshore Wind Delivery Taskforce (OWDT), and the Accelerating Infrastructure Taskforce continue to develop effective policies designed to deliver an accelerated and increased level of renewable generation capacity and related infrastructure, including strengthening the electricity grid and increasing electricity storage.

Ireland currently has over 8.2 GW of renewable electricity generation capacity connected to the network, with approximately 5 GW of new renewable electricity generation capacity added over the last ten years.

More wind and solar capacity are needed if Ireland is to reduce the role of natural gas in price formation and protect our security of supply from volatile international fuel markets. Regional Renewable Electricity Capacity Allocations for onshore wind and solar were included in the First Revision of the National Planning Framework, published in April 2025. The inclusion of these allocations and the urgent alignment of regional strategies and local development plans with these is a critical step towards achieving Ireland’s national renewable electricity targets.

In December 2025, the International Energy Agency published its 'Powering Ireland's Energy Future' report which takes into account key aspects of our energy system including: energy security, renewable generation, grid development, storage, interconnection and provides an assessment of Ireland's Energy Security to 2035.

The report will serve as a starting point for a cross-government programme of work during 2026 to consult on the role of the energy sector in delivering security, competitiveness, and sustainability across Irish society into the 2030s. My Department is working to develop a White Paper which will set out the strategic choices ahead and a delivery framework for Ireland’s electricity sector to 2050.

Five offshore wind projects off our East coast with a planned capacity of 3.8 GW are presently in development. The first planning determinations are anticipated before the end of 2026, and the remainder in the first half of 2027. Subject to planning approval, I anticipate that some of these projects will be in procurement and construction over the coming years and be operational in the early 2030s. The five Phase One projects are responsible for building the offshore transmission assets to connect their projects to the grid. These offshore transmission assets will be built simultaneously with the turbines by the companies concerned.

In December 2025, I announced that Helvick Head DAC won my Department’s second offshore wind auction and will be developing the Tonn Nua 900 megawatt project off the coast of Waterford. Under the Phase Two Offshore Wind Policy, EirGrid as transmission system operator is responsible for constructing the Tonn Nua offshore transmission assets and has committed to making a grid connection available by 2033.

My Department is engaged in planning for auction of the next South Coast DMAP site, Lí Ban. My Department is commissioning site specific engineering surveys and regional level biological surveys to support that auction and is working with EirGrid to develop grid connection options for Lí Ban and the remaining two sites in the South Coast DMAP area. The offshore transmission assets would then be developed in tandem with construction of the windfarms concerned.

My Department is also advancing work on a National DMAP that will provide sufficient additional sites around our coast to facilitate up to 20GW of offshore wind by 2040. Sites are being identified using a number of criteria, including proximately to grid capacity. The offshore transmission assets for these sites would be developed over a period of years as the sites are brought to market.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 165, 166 and 167 together.

The Government is committed to supporting the sustainable growth of data centres and achieving the twin objective of decarbonisation and digitalisation. Data centres are important for Ireland’s economic and digital future and are a key part of our value proposition for foreign direct investment.

When considering the impact of data centres, we must also weigh wider economic benefits, such as tax revenues, employment, broader digital infrastructure value and significant support and linkages provided to other high value sectors of the economy. Currently the industry employs 19,500 directly. In addition, Ireland’s technology sector, underpinned by digital infrastructure in data centres, accounted for employment of 182,900 people in Q4 2024, equivalent to 7% of Ireland’s total workforce.

While data centres are large energy users, unlike other European countries that have heavy-industry bases, Ireland’s industrial electricity demand is primarily concentrated in our digital economy. This is our core energy-intensive industry. Like all large energy users, data centres must exist within the boundaries of our climate obligations as well as energy security.

The Programme for Government contains key commitments such as enhancing data centres’ use of renewable energy sources, energy efficient technology and effective solutions to reduce their carbon footprint. These commitments have been operationalised through the prioritisation of a range of policy and energy infrastructure planning workstreams. Additionally, the Government has prioritised an increased and unprecedented investment in our grid and expanding our energy generation, with a particular priority on renewable energy sources which will be advantageous for all customers.

According to the EPA’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions data for 2025, Ireland now has the lowest level of GHG emissions in 36 years, including a 7.1% reduction in energy industries to an all-time low. This demonstrates that economic growth has been definitively decoupled from greenhouse gas emissions. Since 2015, we have more than doubled the share of electricity in our system that comes from renewable sources - from 19% in 2015 to over 40% in 2025. Ireland reached a significant milestone of 8 GW of renewables connected to the electricity system in March 2026, marking an important step forward in the transition to securing our energy future with homegrown renewable electricity. We also have over 5 GW of onshore wind and over 2.65 GW of solar.

The CRU’s Large Energy Users Connection Policy, published in December 2025, establishes a pathway for data centre connections which requires greater active system supports from data centres, addresses grid stability, security of electricity supply and network constraint considerations, while promoting Ireland’s renewable energy ambitions. It requires new connections to meet at least 80% of their annual electricity demand with new additional renewable electricity generated in Ireland.

The Large Energy User Action Plan (LEAP), published in January 2026, has robust measures that will, inter alia, accelerate energy generation, connectivity, and planning processes which will guide the development of data centres and other strategically significant energy intensive industries, in alignment with Ireland’s decarbonisation objectives and growing the knowledge-based economy. This will allow for greater co-location of energy-intensive sectors with the supply of renewable energy generation within green energy parks.

Under LEAP, my Department, in collaboration with the System Operators and Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment (DETE) will model and consider a range of plan-led LEU development scenarios and locations. The modelling work will provide Government with insights for consideration on the impact of future LEU demand on the energy system with regard to infrastructure requirements, infrastructure cost, and sustainability objectives. The outcomes will be used to inform policy choices going forward, to support a more integrated approach to a plan-led energy system agreed across System Operators, the regulator and Government.

The Value of Data Centres to Ireland is an independent report commissioned by the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, that demonstrates the significant role data centres play in Ireland’s modern economy. The report outlines that data centres strengthen Ireland’s position as a strategic knowledge intensive regional hub for the ICT sector and beyond their direct contributions through construction and operations, data centres play a critical enabling role across a wide range of digitally intensive sectors enhancing the competitiveness of the Irish economy. Data centres also provide the foundation for all almost all online aspects of our social and work lives, including video calling, messaging and apps, retail, banking, travel, media, and public service delivery such as healthcare and welfare.

The report notes that while data centres are large energy users, unlike other European countries that have heavy-industry bases, Ireland’s industrial electricity demand is primarily concentrated in our digital economy. This is our core energy-intensive industry. Like all large energy users, data centres must exist within the boundaries of our climate obligations as well as energy security.

The report also shows that data centres can present a significant strategic opportunity for Ireland’s renewable energy transition, as their steady, long-term electricity demand can unlock and anchor investment in large-scale renewable energy projects, strengthening energy security and advancing national climate goals.

The Large Energy User Action Plan (LEAP), published in January 2026, has robust measures that will, inter alia, accelerate energy generation, connectivity, and planning processes which will guide the sustainable development of data centres and other strategically significant energy intensive industries, in alignment with Ireland’s decarbonisation objectives and growing the knowledge-based economy, as well as other strategic priorities such as the provision of housing and water.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 169 and 170 together.

Ireland is fully committed to an ambitious and just green transition which is essential not only from a decarbonisation and environmental perspective, but is also needed to reduce our reliance on expensive and volatile imported fossil fuels.

This involves adopting appropriate new technologies and initiatives to support the integration of increasing volumes of renewables and further incentivise and support the use of surplus energy to reduce the amount of wasted energy. To this end, the Programme for Government commits to the use of surplus renewable energy to alleviate pressures experienced by those in energy poverty.

Imperfections and dispatch down are major challenges facing electricity systems, like ours, that are increasingly powered by renewables. These complex issues can only be addressed by taking a systematic and multifaceted approach requiring investment in grid, storage and demand flexibility.

Officials in my Department have engaged extensively with relevant stakeholders to identify areas for cooperation in relation to tackling energy poverty and renewable energy waste.

There are a number of key measures currently underway to address these issues including grid enhancement and interconnection, development of the National Energy Affordability Action Plan, the Electricity Storage Policy Framework, the National Hydrogen Programme, smart grid and demand response initiatives, and district heating solutions among others.

My Department will also lead the development of an integrated strategy on minimising the turndown of renewables. This will involve stakeholders from across the energy sector and will: (i) examine the underlying factors which lead to the turn down of renewables; and (ii) identify ways to absorb excess renewables at times of high output. It is expected that this work will overlap with other initiatives my Department already has up and running including the National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) and the development of a new Climate Action Plan.

Water usage management and conservation across commercial and industrial (non domestic) sectors, including data centres, is an operational matter under the remit of Uisce Éireann. Uisce Éireann has statutory responsibility for all aspects of water services planning, delivery and operations at national, regional and local levels. Uisce Éireann has a dedicated team to deal with representations and queries from public representatives that can be contacted via email to oireachtasmembers@water.ie or by telephone 0818 578 578.

Additionally, the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) contains many new measures aimed at further enhancing energy efficiency across society. Article 12 provides for an obligation for Member States to require that owners and operators of certain sized data centres monitor and make publicly available, subject to Union and national law protecting trade and business secrets and confidentiality, information on key metrics on their energy and sustainability performance. The required indicators relate to energy consumption, cooling, waste heat utilisation, water usage and renewable energy use, among others.

Article 12 of the EED is supplemented by the directly effective delegated Regulation 2024/1364 which requires the same in-scope data centres, as under Article 12, to report these key performance indicators on their energy performance to a confidential EU database on data centres established and operated by the European Commission. Reporting of this information by data centres in Ireland to this database is ongoing and the Commission is responsible for making it publicly available in an aggregated manner.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 172 and 182 together.

This Government is committed to delivering on Ireland’s responsibility to address the climate crisis and work remains ongoing across Government Departments to carry out climate mitigation efforts every day.

The EPA's latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory, published earlier this month, shows that Ireland has recorded overall greenhouse gas emission reductions for a fourth consecutive year, and that we have now achieved the first carbon budget.

Ireland now has the lowest level of GHG emissions in 36 years which is notable given a concurrent population increase of approximately 1.5 million people, more than one million new homes and over one million extra vehicles on our roads. Given the strong economic growth over this period, we can see a clear decoupling of growth from emissions which is a key milestone in Ireland's transition to climate neutrality.

We are making significant strides toward our target of 80% renewable energy by 2030. We now have 8GW onshore renewable electricity generation. Regularly throughout the first half of 2026 almost half of Ireland’s electricity demand came from renewable sources. The recent ORESS Tonn Nua offshore wind auction will secure enough clean electricity to power 1,000,000 homes, and we have five Phase One developments progressing through planning this year.

To support this transition, the Government has approved an unprecedented investment of €18.9 billion in the Grid for the period 2026 – 2030. This represents the largest ever investment in our electricity grid, delivering major upgrades and developments to allow for the greater electrification of homes, businesses, and transport.

The Climate Action Delivery Board (CADB), which I chair, and the Climate Action Plan Programme Board (CAPPB) are also now providing oversight of the delivery of our highest impact measures and driving the development of the next Climate Action Plan, which is currently in development and will be published later this year.

With regard to climate adaptation policy, the Government approved Ireland’s second National Adaptation Framework (NAF) in June 2024. Ireland’s first National Climate Change Risk Assessment (NCCRA) was a key deliverable under the NAF and was prepared by the EPA in 2025. The NCCRA provides a comprehensive national overview of potential climate change impacts for Ireland. It was developed with engagement from a wide range of stakeholders. It identifies, ranks, and prioritises national climate change risks and areas where action needs to be prioritised to make Ireland more resilient to the impacts of climate change, such as floods, heatwaves, drought, and storms.

In line with the requirements set out in the NAF, and following publication of the NCCRA, 10 Sectoral Adaptation Plans (SAPs) covering 13 key sectors were approved and published by Government in November 2025. The SAPs were informed by the methodology and prioritised risks set out in the NCCRA and by standardised Met Éireann climate data produced under the TRANSLATE project. Implementation of the SAPs is being progressed by the respective Government Departments responsible for the sectors.

With regard to the use of water for industrial cooling, in particular by data centres, Article 12 of the Energy Efficiency Directive 2023/1791 (‘EED’) provides for an obligation for Member States to require that owners and operators of certain sized data centres, monitor and make publicly available, information on key metrics on their energy and sustainability performance. The required indicators relate to energy consumption, cooling, waste heat utilisation, water usage and renewable energy use, among others. This information is being used to establish an EU wide rating scheme to measure and promote efficiencies in the energy and sustainability performance of data centres, including water.

More generally, water usage management and conservation across commercial and industrial (non-domestic) sectors, including data centres, is an operational matter under the remit of Uisce Éireann. Overall, I am advised that data centres are not a major driver of demand on the public water supply network, accounting for less than 0.3% of the water supplied by Uisce Eireann. Due to advances in cooling technology, modern data centres use relatively small volumes of water. In addition, not all data centres use water from the Uisce Eireann network, with a number of them having their own wells or utilising rainwater harvesting and on-site storage. Uisce Eireann closely monitors water use across all large customers and works with businesses, including data centre operators, to promote efficient and sustainable water use.

In September 2025, I wrote to the Board of Inland Fisheries Ireland regarding the commitment in the Programme for Government that an independent review of IFI should be carried out. In this letter, I indicated that the independent review should be initiated once a new CEO was appointed and embedded in the agency. This sequencing would allow the leadership of the new CEO to contribute to the process and to maximise the effectiveness of the review.

Following an open recruitment process carried out by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of the agency's Board, Dr. Eamonn Kelly was appointed and took up his position on 13 April 2026. It is expected that the review will be initiated during Q3 this year.

In the interim, the Minister has sought and received assurances from the Board that the recommendations of the EY Governance Review of IFI (2023) have been implemented and that the issues reported by the Comptroller and Auditor General in Special Report No. 118 (Governance, Internal Control and Value for Money Issues in Inland Fisheries Ireland) have been fully addressed.

As per the requirements of the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, my Department publishes annual protected disclosures reports and the 2025 report was published in March 2026. All reports of wrongdoing submitted to my Department are formally processed in accordance with my Department’s published Protected Disclosures Policy which aligns with the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 (as amended).

Below is a table summarising the specific information requested and a link is also provided to the aforementioned published policy and annual reports for further information:

www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/organisation-information/protected-disclosures/

Section 8 of the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 (the Act) provides for the making of a protected disclosure to a Minister. Under the provisions of the Act, I, as Minister, without having considered the report or the information of any allegation contained therein, as soon as practicable but in any case not later than 10 days after receipt of a report, am obliged to transmit the report to the Office of the Protected Disclosures Commissioner (OPDC) who will consider who is the most appropriate prescribed person or other suitable person, if a prescribed person cannot be identified.

Section 21 of the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 and the Code of Practice for Governance of State Bodies requires agencies to establish and maintain procedures for the making of protected disclosures by workers who are or were employed by the public body and for dealing with such disclosures.

Bodies under the aegis of my Department are required under the Act to have in place and publish their own internal Protected Disclosures Policy. Workers in these bodies have the option to refer to that body’s own Protected Disclosures Policy if they wish to make a Protected Disclosure.

I can advise the Deputy that my Department currently has two Protected Disclosure cases relating to Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) in progress: -

• One investigation initiated in 2025 remains in progress.

• Follow-up actions relating to one investigation completed in 2025 are being progressed by my Department with IFI and other relevant entities as appropriate.

I can assure the Deputy that all reports of wrongdoing submitted to my Department are formally processed in accordance with my Department’s published Protected Disclosures Policy, which aligns with the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 (as amended).

The Deputy will be aware of the strict confidentiality obligations under this Act and therefore my Department is not in a position to provide details of individual protected disclosures and any associated investigation reports. My Department is satisfied that this is a necessary and proportionate step to protect the identity of both the reporting person and other persons concerned.

I can assure the Deputy that all protected disclosures submitted to my Department are formally processed in accordance with my Department’s published Protected Disclosures Policy which aligns with the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 (as amended).

As per the requirements of this Act, my Department publishes annual protected disclosures reports and the 2025 report was published in March 2026. Since significant amendments to the Act took effect in 2023 this includes the requirement to provide substantially more detail in relation to the processing of all disclosures received by the Department than was required in years prior to 2023. Section 14.2 of DPENDR’s published Statutory Guidance (November 2023) provides the set of templates in Excel format that have been developed to submit the information required under Section 22(1) of the Act. The use of these templates is mandatory.

A link is provided to the aforementioned published policy and annual reports for further information: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-climate-energy-and-the-environment/organisation-information/protected-disclosures/

The Deputy will be aware of the strict confidentiality obligations under the Act and therefore my Department is not in a position to provide details of individual protected disclosures and any associated investigation reports.

My Department manages the tailings management facility (TMF) at Gortmore, Silvermines, County Tipperary and, together with Tipperary County Council, undertakes monitoring, maintenance and remediation works there as part of the Historic Mines Rehabilitation Programme.

My Department is undertaking work to assess the stability at Gortmore TMF, to understand hazards at the site and to reduce risks accordingly. Site investigation works started on 15 June 2026 and are due to be completed by the end of July 2026. These consist of surveying, drilling boreholes, doing geotechnical tests on the ground and collecting samples for analysis. After the site investigation, the results will be used to carry out computer-based stability modelling on the tailings management facility. In early 2027, stability modelling results will inform an action plan to mitigate any identified risks.

The site investigation work is being carried out on behalf of my Department by MKO Environmental Consultants. The profiled cost for the current works at Gortmore TMF is € 274,905. The stability modelling work is subject to a procurement process and is expected to be awarded to a service provider in Autumn 2026.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 179, 213 and 222 together.

It is a priority for Government to support businesses in becoming more energy efficient, sustainable and competitive. My Department is investing significantly and collaboratively in developing and implementing a range of policies and measures that support businesses.

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has undertaken comprehensive assessments of existing cooling demand, technologies, and related emissions both in the Heat Study, and the recently published, Comprehensive Assessment of the Potential for Efficient Heating and Cooling in Ireland. As part of the latter assessment, the current industrial cooling demand and projected future trends were assessed. The report's technical annex also outlines potential cooling solutions and discusses the existing strategies and policies to support renewable cooling in industry.

The SEAI manages the Large Industry Energy Network (LIEN), which is a network of over 200 large energy users in Ireland. The LIEN actively supports the sharing of best practices related to energy management, energy efficiency and decarbonisation. They do this via training, site visits and targeted studies. Industrial cooling is a topic of interest for this network and has been a focus area of the LIEN at various stages in recent years.

I recently approved enhancements to the Excellence in Energy Efficient Design (EXEED) Scheme, which provides capital grants to support organisations (business and public sector) for projects which are following the EXEED Certified Standard for Excellence in Energy Efficient Design. The EXEED Scheme provides support for efficient and low carbon heating technologies. This includes replacing cooling with more efficient systems, heat recovery from cooling, and cooling demand reduction through energy efficient design principles. The expected benefits include:

• supporting the delivery of 1000 GWh of final energy savings;

• supporting the delivery of 150kt of carbon emission reductions;

• significantly scaling up the level of grant support provided to large companies (€130m from 2026 to 2030);

• a substantially improved SEAI large business grant offering, supporting the sector with energy costs and their sustainable energy goals; and

• a customer-focussed, tailored approach to grant funding which will deliver the scale and pace of growth required in SEAI schemes to meet national targets and objectives.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 180 and 185 together.

More frequent and intense storms, longer periods of drought, rising sea levels, heatwaves, floods and coastal change are just some of the impacts of our changing climate to which we must adapt.

The Government is committed to protecting Ireland’s present and future generations with a whole of government approach to Climate Adaptation underpinned by the National Adaptation Framework (NAF), published in 2024, and coordinated by my Department via the National Adaptation Steering Committee (NASC).

Ireland’s first National Climate Change Risk Assessment (NCCRA), prepared by the EPA in 2025, was a key deliverable under the NAF. The NCCRA identifies, ranks, and prioritises national climate change risks and areas where action needs to be prioritised to make Ireland more resilient to the impacts of climate change.

Under the NAF and informed by the NCCRA and standardised climate data from Met Éireann, 10 Sectoral Adaptation Plans (SAPs) covering 13 key sectors were approved and published by Government in November 2025. Sectors were required to collaborate on cross-cutting issues and with Climate Action Regional Offices (CAROs) during SAP development.

31 Local Authority Climate Action Plans (LACAPs) were published in 2024 which included adaptation actions to build resilience against flood, heat and drought. Since 2022, approximately €19.7m has been paid to local authorities by my Department to develop and implement their LACAPs.

In June 2026, my Department received a business case from the County and City Management Association (CCMA) requesting that provision be made for the existing 110 climate posts in local authorities to become permanent posts. I support this in principle and officials in my Department are currently reviewing the business case with a view to presenting a submission to me.

A new Adaptation Taskforce, which I established at the end of last year, provides for senior-level oversight and co-ordination of Ireland’s approach to adaptation including systemic delivery barriers and cross-cutting issues and risks.

The revised Waste Framework Directive that entered into force in October 2025 includes a strengthened focus on surplus food donation and redistribution. This includes that Member States shall, after consulting with food banks and other food redistribution organisations, take measures, where appropriate, on the basis of any existing national food donation system, to ensure that economic operators identified by Member States as having a significant role in the prevention and generation of food waste, propose donation agreements to food banks and to other food redistribution organisations so as to facilitate the donation of unsold food that is safe for human consumption, and at a reasonable cost to economic operators. Ireland is required to transpose the revised Directive into national law by June 2027.

To inform policy development on surplus food redistribution and donation the Department has funded the Food Circle Project, a two-year grant agreement that was established with FoodCloud in August 2024. Supported by the Circular Economy Fund, key deliverables for this Project have included a number of reports and associated recommendations which can be accessed at the following link: www.food.cloud/foodcircle.

The draft National Food Waste Prevention Roadmap 2026-2028, recently published by the Department for public consultation also includes a range of proposed measures related to food donation and redistribution. The proposed Action 25 in the draft Roadmap concerns the identification of economic operators that have a significant role in the prevention and generation of food waste for the purpose of proposing donation agreements to food banks and other food redistribution organisations so as to facilitate the donation of unsold food that is safe for human consumption. This proposed action also includes the establishment of a mechanism to ensure such operators put in place arrangements to propose donation agreements to food banks and other redistribution organisations. As the draft National Food Waste Prevention Roadmap 2026-2028 is currently subject to public consultation, no final policy decision has been taken in relation to the proposed Action 25.

The Food Circle Reports, the final National Food Waste Prevention Roadmap, and ongoing consultation with food banks and other food redistribution organisations in line with the revised Waste Framework Directive will inform the measures that are needed in order to fulfil requirements related to surplus food donation agreements.

The Government’s National Digital and AI Strategy, ‘Digital Ireland - Connecting our People, Securing our Future’, published in February 2026, sets out the Government’s ambition and vision to 2030 to ensure Ireland remains a digital leader in an increasingly competitive global environment. It aims to secure Ireland as a global hub for applied AI innovation, strengthening our profile as a location for investment. It will ensure our economy reaps the benefits of digital and AI for growth and competitiveness, enhance our public services and empower our people to thrive in a digital society.

In accelerating our digital and AI ambitions, it is important that data centres and their energy consumption are managed and planned appropriately. The Government's Large Energy User Action Plan (LEAP), published in January 2026, sets out a ‘plan-led’ approach for very large and energy intensive investments, which due to their scale and energy consumption benefit from coordinated national infrastructure planning. It is a medium-term plan that will enable Ireland to capture next generation investment in energy intensive industries, and unlock significant associated economic and employment opportunities.

Under LEAP, my Department, in collaboration with the System Operators and Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment (DETE), will model and consider a range of plan-led LEU development scenarios and locations. The modelling work will provide Government with insights for consideration on the impact of future LEU demand on the energy system with regard to infrastructure requirements, infrastructure cost, and sustainability objectives. The outcomes will be used to inform policy choices going forward, to support a more integrated approach to a plan-led energy system agreed across System Operators, the regulator and Government.

More generally, EirGrid as Transmission System Operator (TSO) develops, manages and operates the transmission grid in Ireland. They balance supply and demand on an on-going basis, while also planning for Ireland’s long-term electricity needs. The Deputy may wish to contact EirGrid directly via oireachtas@eirgrid.com regarding the issue which he is raising. The CRU may also be contacted via oireachtas@cru.ie should the Deputy require further information.

Article 12 of the Energy Efficiency Directive 2023/1791 (‘EED’) provides for an obligation for Member States to require that owners and operators of certain sized data centres monitor and make publicly available, subject to Union and national law protecting trade and business secrets and confidentiality, information on key metrics on their energy and sustainability performance. The required indicators do not include carbon emissions but relate to energy consumption, cooling, waste heat utilisation, water usage and renewable energy use, among others.

Article 12 of the EED is supplemented by the directly effective delegated regulation 2024/1364 which requires the same in-scope data centres, as under Article 12, to report these key performance indicators on their energy performance to a confidential EU database on data centres established and operated by the European Commission.

Reporting of this information by data centres in Ireland to this database is ongoing and the Commission is responsible for making it publicly available in an aggregated manner.

With respect to the transposition of Article 12, my Department has progressed drafting to an advanced stage. This includes the assignment of compliance oversight which my Department is seeking to implement as soon as possible. My Department continues to keep stakeholders and the Commission updated in relation to this matter. The Government is fully committed to implementing the EED and recognises the significant benefits involved.

The Government is committed to delivering a balanced approach to facilitate sustainable data centre demand while also ensuring overall energy security and affordability for consumers and businesses.

The Large Energy User Action Plan (LEAP), published in January 2026, sets out a ‘plan-led’ approach for very large and energy intensive investments, which due to their scale and energy consumption benefit from coordinated national infrastructure planning. A key pillar of LEAP will be to provide a framework for the establishment of green energy parks, in which to co-locate the most energy-intensive large energy user sectors with the supply of renewables and other enabling technologies.

Alongside LEAP, the CRU’s Large Energy Users Connection Policy, published in December 2025, sets out a pathway for new large demand connection applications to the electricity system which addresses risks in relation to security of supply and system constraints and promotes renewable energy targets. Under the new connection policy, new Data Centres are required to develop sufficient renewable energy generation to match 80% of their annual electricity demand.

To ensure ongoing decarbonisation of the electricity system, incentivising greater demand efficiency and flexibility by LEUs is also essential. The National Energy Demand Strategy by CRU sets out a series of actions by the regulator and System Operators to unlock greater demand flexibility.

In addition, Article 12 of the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) includes requirements to enhance the energy efficiency of data centres. Data centres in Ireland, and across the EU, are reporting this information to this EU database. The information will be used to inform future policy at national and EU level, including the establishment of an EU wide rating scheme to measure and promote efficiencies in the energy and sustainability performance of data centres.

The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) is responsible for electricity connection policy and the economic regulation of the electricity system operators ESB Networks and EirGrid. Electricity Network Tariffs are set every year by the CRU to recover the costs of developing, operating, and maintaining the electricity grid. CRU are progressing a multi-annual Electricity Network Tariff Review project to reform how network charges are levied to ensure costs are fairly distributed across different customers.

Additionally, Government has established the National Energy Affordability Taskforce which is preparing an Energy Affordability Action Plan to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses.

Under the Separate Collection (Deposit Return Scheme) Regulations 2024, retailers that sell in-scope beverage containers are legally responsible for providing a take-back service to consumers, unless they have been granted an exemption on the grounds of premises size. As the Approved Body under the regulations, Re-turn manages the detailed arrangements around the operation of the take-back service.

Re-turn has advised that where a retailer operates an RVM, the retailer remains responsible for the day-to-day operation of that return point, including ensuring that the machine can accept containers, that associated receptacles are managed appropriately, and that full machines are emptied and prepared for collection.

Re-turn, as scheme operator, plays an active role in supporting retailers to meet these obligations. This includes monitoring the overall availability of RVM infrastructure nationwide, store visits, education manuals, and working with retailers and RVM providers as required.

Re-turn also provides operational guidance to retailers, arranges collections through contracted logistics providers, and monitors scheme performance to support a consistent and reliable consumer experience across the retail network with a high average RVM availability.

With regard to consequences, where a retailer consistently fails to meet its obligations, Re-turn engages directly with the retailer to resolve the issue. Reports of inoperative RVMs should be made in the first instance to the customer service desk or store manager of the specific location, to arrange for routine maintenance such as emptying. For systemic issues or recurring problems, reports may be made to Re-turn, who will follow up and take the appropriate action. The relevant contact details are at this link: re-turn.ie/consumer/.

Local Authorities are responsible for enforcement of the Regulations and have powers under the Waste Management Act 1996 to investigate breaches and take appropriate enforcement action where necessary.

Under the terms of operation of the Deposit Return Scheme, retailers have two options when offering a take-back service for empty, undamaged drinks containers featuring the Re-turn logo which are returned by customers. They may opt for manual returns or automatic returns through a Reverse Vending Machine. Logistical reasons such as staffing and storage space requirements related to the volume of expected returns of drinks containers are the main driver in determining which option a retailer takes.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 188 and 190 together.

The EU Just Transition Fund has committed a total of €169m through Government and EU co-funding to support the communities most negatively affected by the move away from fossil fuels and the cessation of commercial peat extraction. Ireland’s designated Just Transition Territory include the counties of Laois, Longford, Offaly, Roscommon, Westmeath, and municipal districts of Ballinasloe (Co. Galway), Athy and Clane-Maynooth (Co. Kildare), and Carrick-on-Suir and Thurles (Co. Tipperary).

Although projects are not categorised based on Local Municipal District as requested in the Question, I have included a breakdown of all funding awarded to projects based fully or partially in the two eligible municipal districts in County Kildare. To date, €11.7m has been awarded to 15 projects operating exclusively in County Kildare and €30.9m has been allocated to 9 projects at least partially based in County Kildare. This amounts to €42.6m allocated to 24 projects partially or fully based in County Kildare. Further details on the funding awarded to these 24 projects are provided in the attached table.

Projects list

The EU Just Transition Fund has committed a total of €169m through Government and EU co-funding to support the communities most negatively affected by the move away from fossil fuels and the cessation of commercial peat extraction. Ireland’s designated Just Transition Territory include the counties of Laois, Longford, Offaly, Roscommon, Westmeath, and municipal districts of Ballinasloe (Co. Galway), Athy and Clane-Maynooth (Co. Kildare), and Carrick-on-Suir and Thurles (Co. Tipperary).

To date, 15 funding calls have been completed under the Programme. Applications under a final funding call, Supporting a Sustainable Transition through Climate Action for a Resilient Territory (START) scheme, closed last month. START, valued at €30m, is aimed at supporting local authorities in the Midlands Region to implement strategic actions contained within their Local Authority Climate Action Plans.

With all programme funding committed through these calls, it is not possible to support any further projects outside of these calls. Information on activities supported under calls completed to date can be found on the website of the Eastern & Midland Regional Assembly who are the Managing Authority of Ireland’s EU JTF Programme.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 191, 192 and 193 together.

Waste collection permitting is a statutory function of local authorities under the Waste Management Act. The National Waste Collection Permit Office (NWCPO) in Offaly County Council is the Nominated Authority responsible for the issuing of waste collection permits on behalf of all local authorities. Accordingly , queries in relation to the number of authorised waste collection companies offering a kerbside glass collection service should be addressed to Offaly County Council.

All waste collection companies are required to hold a waste collection permit in order to collect waste. A standard set of conditions are attached to the permits, which are available to view at nwcpo.ie. These include matters such as minimum frequency for collections, requirement to implement a charging system which incentivises source segregation of waste, a requirement to provide, at a minimum, a collection service for biowaste, recycling and residual waste, etc.

It should be noted that there is no obligation on waste collection companies to offer a glass collection service although I am informed that a number of waste collection companies do offer such a service.

The EPA is the competent authority for the collation of national waste statistics and reports annually on Ireland’s performance against a range of European waste directives and regulations. These reports are available at www.epa.ie/our-services/monitoring--assessment/waste/national-waste-statistics/

The current separate collection and recycling system for glass bottles, based primarily on an extensive network of bottle banks and civic amenity sites, is a model well established in Ireland with recycling rates already significantly above current EU targets. Our national glass recycling rate for 2023 (the latest year for which official statistics are available) was 83%, exceeding not only the EU target of 60% for that year but also the 70% target for 2025 and the 75% target for 2030. Given the continued success of the existing model there are no plans to change it.

The Programme for Government commits to promoting the Small-Scale Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (SRESS) to simplify market access for community, SME and farmer-owned solar and wind projects.

The SRESS export tariff is designed for community, SME and farmer export only projects above 50kW to 6MW. SRESS offers a simpler route to market for those groups, with fixed tariffs for solar and wind, aligning more closely to the capacity of those sectors.

The SRESS export tariffs are available for solar and onshore wind technologies as the vast majority of renewable electricity generation projects being developed, and expected to receive grid connection offers, comprise these two technologies. Onshore wind and solar energy generation typically have a lower levelised cost of electricity than other technologies

Support for biomass technology as renewable heat source is provided via the Department’s Support Scheme for Renewable Heat. The scheme is designed to financially support the installation and/or operation of renewable heating systems by commercial, industrial, agricultural, district heating and other non-domestic heat users. Through the Scheme’s operational supports, almost €5.6 million in tariff payments has been dispersed to biomass-based projects around the country to date, with an additional €31.6 million committed in operational aid over the next 15 years.

Funding of up to €200m for a second round of capital grants has been secured through the National Development Plan/Infrastructure, Nature and Climate Fund process. My Department is now in the initial stages of putting the grant scheme in place which will be available to support the development of anaerobic digestion plants in Ireland from late 2026.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 196, 197, 216, 217, 218 and 239 together.

Plug-in solar systems are very small PV energy systems, usually two or three modules and less than 1 kW in total per installation, which are connected to a micro-inverter and plugged directly into a normal household socket. This then feeds the home's internal electricity system. These low-cost panels can be put on balconies or outdoor spaces.

The use of plug-in mini solar technology has grown in some EU countries in recent years as consumers search for ways to save on high energy bills. It has seen particular growth in Germany.

Government is supportive of any technology which can reduce costs for households and consumers and increase the share of renewables in our system, provided that it can be integrated safely. For that reason, in May, I wrote to ESB Networks (ESBN) requesting that, in its capacity as the body responsible for safety regulations and technical standards for the distribution grid, it works with the National Standards Authority of Ireland, Safe Electric and the Commission for Regulation of Utilities to prioritise and accelerate the development of standards that will permit the use of plug-in solar systems in Ireland.

The Managing Director of ESBN has since responded confirming ESBN's support for the safe, proportionate use of small, plug-in solar or battery devices up to a total of 800 W (AC) provided that the following conditions are met:

• customer and public safety are prioritised and assured;

• network integrity and power quality are maintained in all operating conditions;

• the distribution system operator has appropriate visibility of connected generation through a simple registration process; and

devices meet the relevant technical and product standards.

ESBN has commenced work in that regard and has written to other key stakeholders with a view to coordinating the respective positions and set out a shared pathway to accelerate the deployment of plug-in solar and storage. Engagement with Eirgrid to ensure that it is adequately prepared for the impact of plug-in generation on the transmission network will also take place.

A Working Group has been established to address the technical, safety and other issues that need to be addressed so that the technology can be introduced as quickly as possible. Officials from my Department, ESBN, the Commission for Regulation of Utilities, the National Standards Authority of Ireland, Safe Electric and the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission are represented on the Working Group which is chaired by ESBN.

The current focus of the Working Group relates to delivering plug-in solar systems in Ireland. The SEAI's grants are kept under review on an ongoing basis.

My Department does not own any buildings.

The information sought in the Question in relation to each agency or public body under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each of the State Bodies concerned and, as such, it is not information held by my Department. It is suggested that the Deputy contact the Bodies directly in relation to this matter. A list of these Bodies and their dedicated Oireachtas email addresses is attached.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 199 and 204 together.

Addressing energy affordability is a priority for this Government. That is why in June of last year, my Department established the National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses while delivering key renewables commitments, and protecting security of supply and economic stability.

While the number of persons in energy poverty by county and local authority area is not available, national level data is available. Households spending above 10% of total income on their energy needs (excluding energy for transport) are counted in the current measurement of energy poverty. In 2022, based on this measure, the ESRI estimated that the number of households at risk of energy poverty was 29%.

As part of the energy poverty research programme funded by my Department, the ESRI have published a number of papers, most recently “Energy Poverty and Affordability in Ireland", in April 2026. This paper found that 14% of Irish households (or 1 in 7) were unable to afford adequate warmth or pay energy bills in full in 2024. This is well below the levels recorded during the financial crisis, which stood at 25% in 2013.

The First Report of the National Energy Affordability Taskforce, published last year, informed key aspects of Budget 2026 including:

• a 15% or €5 per week increase to the Fuel Allowance, providing an additional €140 to recipients during the annual fuel allowance season;

• eligibility for the Fuel Allowance was also expanded to include those in receipt of the Working Family Payment. The Allowance now benefits approximately 470,000 households;

• an extension of the reduced VAT rate of 9% which is applied to gas and electricity to 2030. This provides clarity and certainty to energy consumers and reduces energy bills for households by up to €100 per year; and

• the €400 income tax disregard for households involved in microgeneration was extended for a further three years to end-2028.

A record €640 million has also been provided to support the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland's (SEAI) residential and community energy upgrade schemes this year. This includes €340 million for the Warmer Homes Scheme which provides fully funded upgrades for households in energy poverty. The allocation means that more funding than ever will be available to make homes warmer, healthier, more comfortable and less expensive to heat. Since 2019, SEAI schemes have provided over €1.8 billion in support to homeowners for over 268,000 home energy improvements, including over 36,000 fully-funded upgrades for households at risk of energy poverty (under the Warmer Homes Scheme).

The NEAT continues to work intensively on an Energy Affordability Action Plan to be submitted to Government in Q3 of this year. This Action Plan will be focused on short, medium and longer term measures to support households and businesses to meet their energy costs and will be built around 4 key pillars:

•addressing the price of energy;

•sustainable demand and enhancing flexibility;

•targeted supports to address energy poverty and customer protections; and

•targeted supports for energy affordability for businesses.

To facilitate this robust and coordinated cross-Government response, a number of NEAT subgroups have been established, bringing together officials from a wide range of Government Departments and Agencies. A period of intensive engagement to refine options for consideration by the Taskforce is currently underway.

This work is also being supported by structured engagement with relevant external stakeholders. This included a targeted stakeholder consultation session with the Community and Voluntary Pillar and other relevant NGOs on tackling energy poverty.

Regulation of retail energy markets is solely a matter for the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) since the enactment of the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 and subsequent legislation. While the number of domestic electricity disconnections for non-payment cannot be provided on a county-by-county basis, officials from my Department correspond with the CRU on an ongoing basis to track developments in retail and wholesale energy markets, including arrears and disconnection levels, among other indicators.

The CRU collect market monitoring data directly from energy suppliers and this is published on a monthly basis at www.cru.ie. As arrears data operates with a time lag due to the way suppliers report these figures to the CRU, the latest disconnection data available is for March 2026. The relevant data is set out in the attached table.

The Programme for Government commits to taking decisive action to provide warmer, more comfortable homes, supporting energy affordability, security and sustainability. We are delivering on this and the pace of delivery is ramping up year-on-year.

The National Residential Retrofit Plan 2026 introduced a number of new and expanded measures to make energy upgrades more affordable and accessible to many more homeowners. These measures are making more homes more sustainable and energy-efficient, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and lowering energy costs for households.

Following the introduction of the new measures, there has been more than a doubling of applications in the first half of 2026 (year-on-year) with over 67,000 applications received by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) so far this year, compared to just over 30,000 received in the first half of 2025. That’s an increase of over 120%.

From 2019 to end June 2026 there has been a record level of more than €1.9 billion invested in the SEAI's schemes to support over 274,000 home energy upgrades, including over 37,500 fully-funded upgrades for households at risk of energy poverty under the Warmer Homes Scheme.

The information sought regarding numbers of applications received and grants paid by the SEAI by scheme and by county, between 2020 and to date in 2026, as well as average grant values, is an operational matter for the SEAI. The SEAI has established a specific email address for queries from Oireachtas members so that such queries can be addressed promptly and in line with the SEAI’s objective to deliver services to the highest standards. The email address is: [oireachtas@seai.ie].

The Programme for Government sets out the commitment to ensuring that communities hosting renewable energy projects directly benefit from those developments, including through community gain arrangements. Furthermore, the General Approach on the Permitting Directive under the EU Grids Package includes a provision requiring benefit sharing for all renewable energy projects above 10 MW.

Community Benefit Funds (CBFs) are mandated as a condition of support under the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS), as well as being provided by wind and solar project developers outside of the RESS.

The RESS mandates that each project participating in the scheme contribute a minimum of €2 per Megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity generated annually to a CBF. It is expected that all renewable energy projects provide an equivalent level of support regardless of whether they are included in the RESS.

These Funds are intended to support social, environmental, educational, cultural and recreational initiatives in the local area. In this way, these Funds ensure that tangible benefits are delivered in the areas where renewable electricity projects are located.

The first renewable electricity projects supported under RESS have recently begun to energise and, as a result, are now starting to submit their annual CBF reports to the CBF National Register: https://cbfnationalregister.seai.ie/.

This Register is maintained by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and provides a central source of information on the allocation and expenditure of CBFs for RESS-supported projects.

As projects commence generation and complete their first funding cycle, information relating to CBF, including those of renewable electricity projects in County Kerry, will become available on the National Register. Under RESS, however, CBFs are required to support initiatives in the vicinity of the relevant renewable energy project and expenditure of these funds is not constrained by country administrative boundaries.

In addition, renewable projects operating voluntary CBFs outside of RESS are not subject to the same reporting requirements and are therefore not obliged to report to the CBF National Register.

My Department will continue to work to ensure the information on CBFs under RESS is accessible as further RESS projects become operational and begin reporting.

While the average household expenditure on electricity and home heating cannot be provided on a county-by-county basis, the latest national monthly estimated annual bill for both electricity and gas can be provided. Officials from my Department correspond with the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) on an ongoing basis to track developments in retail and wholesale energy markets, including arrears and disconnection levels, among other indicators.

The CRU collect market monitoring data directly from energy suppliers and this is published on a monthly basis at: www.cru.ie. Following publication, data is also shared with my Department, including information on estimated annual bills for households and the number of households in payment arrears on their electricity and gas bills as well as disconnections.

According to the latest CRU figures (for May 2026) the market average estimated annual bill for electricity is €1,876, and €1,549 for gas.

Addressing energy affordability is a priority for this Government. That is why in June of last year, my Department established the National Energy Affordability Taskforce, the NEAT to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses while delivering key renewables commitments, and protecting security of supply and economic stability.

The NEAT is working intensively on an Energy Affordability Action Plan to be submitted to Government in Q3 of this year. Publication of the Action Plan will follow approval by Government. This Action Plan will be focused on short, medium and longer term measures to support households and businesses in meeting their energy costs and will be built around 4 key pillars:

addressing the price of energy;

sustainable demand and enhancing flexibility;

addressing energy poverty and customer protections; and

energy affordability for businesses.

The Warmer Homes Scheme aims to improve the energy efficiency and warmth of homes owned by people at risk of energy poverty by providing fully funded retrofits. The scheme is operated by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) on behalf of my Department and is funded through carbon tax revenues and the European Regional Development Fund.

The Warmer Homes Scheme is available to owner-occupied properties, based on the householder being in receipt of certain Department of Social Protection (DSP) income supports. The scheme targets support to those on the lowest incomes who are living in the least efficient homes so that the resources available can have the greatest impact in addressing energy poverty.

The breakdown of average waiting times under the Warmer Homes Scheme to end June 2026 is:

Application to Pre-BER Published - 8 months;

Application to Survey Completed - 13 months; and

Application to Works Completed - 23 months.

This represents a decrease from an average waiting time of 26 months for homes completed in 2022. In parallel with this decrease in the average waiting time, the number of homes upgraded in a year has almost doubled over the same period, increasing from over 4,200 in 2022 to over 8,100 in 2025.

The reduction in waiting times and increase in number of homes upgraded follows a range of measures introduced by my Department and the SEAI. These include the allocation of additional staff to the Warmer Homes Scheme; a significantly increased budget allocation; active contract engagement and management by the SEAI to increase contractor output; as well as actions to address ongoing supply chain pressures.

The SEAI have established a new €1.2 billion contractor panel this year, which will support continued growth with a focus on scale, quality and output under the scheme.

The SEAI have also developed a Waiting List Action Plan with the objective of reducing the number of clients waiting for an upgrade, ensuring prioritisation of the worst performing homes, and improving efficiencies across the scheme.

To help maximise delivery and continue to improve waiting times, Budget 2026 provided record funding of €340 million for the Warmer Homes Scheme, with a target of 11,500 fully funded home upgrades for 2026.

My officials continue to work with the SEAI to maximise and accelerate the output of free energy upgrades provided under this important scheme.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 207 and 208 together.

I have neither received nor issued correspondence to these companies on the Bill referenced by the Deputy.

Government Departments are required to publish details of all non-compliant procurements over €25k in their Appropriation Accounts annually. In 2025 there were no non-compliant procurements reported. Provisional figures for 2026, to date, show non compliant procurement of €750k.

The information requested in relation to the agencies under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each agency and as such the Deputy may wish to contact those agencies directly. Contact details are set out in the attached document for ease of reference.

My Department has an approved policy for the use of Artificial Intelligence which is based on recommendations from DPENDR’s Guidelines for the Responsible Use of A.I. in the Public Service (2025) and the National Cyber Security Centre’s (NCSC) Securing AI Adoption in the Public Sector Cyber Security Guidelines for AI Deployments (2026).

Following the completion of a recent AI pilot, Microsoft Copilot Chat is now being rolled out to all staff subject to completion of mandatory AI training.

Categories of usage include:

Drafting, summarising, or translating material that does not contain sensitive or restricted information;

Research and information gathering using non-sensitive data; and

Productivity and administrative support tasks using approved tools.

All outputs are subject to human oversight and are reviewed, verified, and validated by authorised personnel prior to any use.

The information sought in the question in relation to each agency or public body under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each of the State Bodies concerned and, as such, it is not information held by my Department. It is suggested that the Deputy contact the Bodies directly in relation to this matter. A list of these Bodies and their dedicated Oireachtas email addresses is attached.

As noted in the response to Parliamentary Question No. 228 of 16 July 2026, the Department of the Taoiseach works with the implementing Departments to publish quarterly Climate Action Plan progress reports, following Government consideration and approval. Details on every action due in that quarter is published as an Appendix to each report and includes updates in relation to progress and timeframes. Legacy actions from previous CAPs are also included in these progress updates.

Homeowners of Defective Concrete Blocks (DCB) affected homes are eligible to apply for Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) home energy upgrade grants similar to other homeowners. Government has made a number of exemptions to the SEAI scheme rules for the DCB-affected homes to account for their circumstances and to ensure that the rebuilt or renovated homes can be well insulated and heated with a heat pump. The bespoke arrangements that apply exclusively to DCB-affected homeowners are aimed at addressing barriers to accessing the grants and ensure that the schemes operate in a streamlined way.

The SEAI schemes include grants for the fabric upgrade of buildings (e.g. insulation), as well as solar PV and heat pump installation. While DCB homeowners are able to opt for a number of SEAI schemes, for those seeking a whole home upgrade to achieve a BER of B or better, the National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme is the primary route. This scheme is managed by the SEAI on behalf of my Department and delivered through the SEAI's registered One-Stop-Shops (OSSs) which manage the entire process for the homeowner.

DCB affected homeowners can use their own builder who will need to work in conjunction with the OSS to be eligible for SEAI grants. The OSS manages the entire energy upgrade process, working with the builder and dealing with the SEAI. Homeowners and their OSS agree a contract for the completion of the retrofit works. The OSS will deduct the grant value from the cost upfront, meaning the costs incurred by homeowners are net of grant.

The energy upgrades will be installed at the same time as the wider DCB remediation works. The Competent Building Professional (CBP), engaged by the homeowner, oversees and certifies the DCB remediation and the energy upgrade works. The SEAI engages with each CBP through each of the grant applications received and support the completion of the energy upgrades for these homes.

The SEAI have a webpage dedicated to information for DCB homes, along with FAQs. This material has been developed in conjunction with relevant stakeholders to ensure key information is available to homeowners:

seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/defective-concrete-blocks

The SEAI can investigate matters raised by individual homeowners and follow up directly with the OSSs concerned if details can be provided directly to them. In this regard, the SEAI has established a specific email address for queries from Oireachtas members so that such queries can be addressed promptly, in line with SEAI’s objective to deliver services to the highest standards. The email address is:oireachtas@seai.ie.

Homeowners can also contact the OSS team at the SEAI at: Telephone: 01808 2100, email: onestopshop@seai.ie:

seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/defective-concrete-blocks

Under the Litter Pollution Act and the Waste Management Act, the primary responsibility for management and enforcement responses to littering and illegal dumping lies with the local authorities. It is a matter for each local authority to determine the most appropriate awareness, enforcement, clean-up and disposal actions in relation to littering and illegal dumping, taking account of their own local circumstances and priorities.

However, the Department continues to provide significant support to the local authority sector in their efforts to deal with incidences of illegal dumping. €23 million has been provided to local authorities under the Anti-Dumping Initiative (ADI) since it was launched in 2017, including €2.89 million in 2025, to encourage a collaborative approach between local authorities, community groups and other State Agencies to tackling the problem.

Funding provided under the ADI can be utilised by local authorities to organise clean-ups, purchase CCTV and other mobile recording equipment and put in place effective enforcement measures. In this regard I am informed that Carlow County Council recently secured a conviction against an individual found to have illegally dumped waste at a recycling centre, with evidence collected via a CCTV system funded under the ADI. This serves as an example of the effectiveness of the ADI in supporting local authority enforcement activity.

A further €3 million has been allocated to local authorities under the ADI in 2026. It is a matter for each local authority to apply for this funding through the Waste Enforcement Regional Lead Authorities, who administer the scheme on behalf of the Department.

The Department continues to invest heavily in the local authority waste enforcement network through the Local Authority Waste Enforcement Measures Grant Scheme. Since this scheme was established in 2003, almost €160 million has been provided to local authorities by the Department in order to support the ongoing recruitment and retention of a network of waste enforcement staff across the country. A further €7.7 million has been allocated to local authorities under this scheme in 2026.

The Department also provides financial support to local authority efforts to tackle litter through the Anti-Litter & Anti-Graffiti Awareness Grant Scheme. €750,000 was provided under this Scheme in 2025 with a comparable amount expected to be made available in 2026.

Significantly the on-the-spot fine for littering will increase from €150 to €250 from the 1 September, delivering on the Programme for Government commitment to increase penalties to deter littering and illegal dumping, and ensuring those found to have littered face appropriate consequences.

E-waste refers to waste arising from electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). The European Union (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Regulations 2014 provides the legislative framework for the management of waste electrical and electronic Equipment (WEEE) or e-waste in Ireland and sets out the responsibilities of producers when placing such equipment on the market and when it reaches end of life.

While the WEEE Framework does not require the tracking of individual items of EEE throughout its lifecycle, it requires producers and authorised waste operators to maintain records and report on quantities of EEE placed on the market and WEEE collected, treated, recovered and recycled.

Ireland uses the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) model to manage a number of waste streams, including WEEE. EPR operates under the ‘producer pays’ principle where producers are responsible for financing the collection and environmentally sound management of their products at end of life. All producers of EEE must register as a producer with the national producer registration body, Producer Register Limited (PRL), and report the types and quantities of EEE they place on the Irish market.

Producers of Business to Consumer (B2C) EEE (i.e. household or domestic products) must join an approved EPR scheme such as WEEE Ireland or ERP Ireland, which provide collective compliance on behalf of their producer members including the collection and treatment of WEEE. These schemes publish Annual Reports, outlining their collection, recycling and recovery activities.

Producers of Business to Business (B2B) EEE (i.e. products supplied commercial/industrial purposes, including data centres) must self-comply with the Regulations. This includes informing its business customers of available take back arrangements, accepting WEEE when required, ensuring WEEE is transferred to authorised waste operators for treatment and reporting annually to the Environmental Protection Agency on quantities of WEEE managed.

Further information regarding the obligations of B2B and B2C producers is available on the EPA’s website:

[<ahref="www.epa.ie/our-services/compliance--enforcement/waste/weee/information-for-eee-producers/">www.epa.ie/our-services/compliance--enforcement/waste/weee/information-for-eee-producers/</a>].

My Department continues to oversee the preparation of Ireland's Social Climate Plan in close consultation with the European Commission and relevant Departmental stakeholders.

In line with the requirements of the Regulation, a public event on the draft Plan, co-hosted by my Department and the European Commission, will be held later this year. At this event, information will be shared on the contents of the draft Plan as well as detail on how the consultation process completed last year fed into the design of the draft. This draft will include a summary of submissions received on the Plan. Following the event, a final draft Plan will be submitted to Government for approval. It will then be submitted to the European Commission for final approval.

To facilitate this level of engagement, the Plan will be submitted to the Commission, for approval, in the final quarter of this year. The schedule for the drawdown of funding from the Social Climate Fund will be included in the final submission of the Social Climate Plan. Payments from the Fund will be conditional upon the achievement of milestones and targets agreed upon with the Commission in the final Plan.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 220 and 247 together.

Ireland is fully committed to an ambitious and just green transition which is essential not only from a decarbonisation and environmental perspective, but is also needed to reduce our reliance on expensive and volatile imported fossil fuels.

This involves adopting appropriate new technologies and initiatives to support the integration of increasing volumes of renewables and further incentivise and support the use of surplus energy to reduce the amount of wasted energy. To this end, the Programme for Government commits to the use of surplus renewable energy to alleviate pressures experienced by those in energy poverty.

Imperfections and dispatch down are major challenges facing electricity systems, like ours, that are increasingly powered by renewables. These complex issues can only be addressed by taking a systematic and multi-faceted approach requiring investment in grid, storage and demand flexibility.

Officials in my Department have engaged extensively with relevant stakeholders to identify areas for cooperation in relation to tackling energy poverty and renewable energy waste.

There are a number of key measures currently underway to address these issues, including grid enhancement and interconnection, development of the National Energy Affordability Action Plan, the Electricity Storage Policy Framework, the National Hydrogen Programme, smart grid and demand response initiatives, and district heating solutions among others.

My Department will also lead the development of an integrated strategy on minimising the turndown of renewables. This will involve stakeholders from across the energy sector and will: (i) examine the underlying factors which lead to the turn down of renewables; and (ii) identify ways to absorb excess renewables at times of high output. It is expected that this work will overlap with other initiatives my Department already has up and running including the National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) and the development of a new Climate Action Plan.

This Government is committed to delivering on Ireland’s responsibility to address the climate crisis and work remains ongoing across Government to implement climate mitigation measures every day. We have a robust climate delivery framework and detailed plans in place across all sectors. My priority is driving implementation, particularly of high impact measures with multiple societal and economic benefits.

The EPA’s most recent emissions inventory report, published earlier this month, confirms record progress. Ireland has recorded overall greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions for a fourth consecutive year, with a decrease of 2.2% in 2025 following decreases of 2% in 2024, 6.8% in 2023 and 1.9% in 2022.

Ireland now has the lowest level of GHG emissions in 36 years which is notable given a concurrent population increase of approximately 1.5 million people, more than one million new homes and over one million extra vehicles on our roads. Given the strong economic growth over this period, we can see a clear decoupling of growth from emissions which is a key milestone in Ireland's transition to climate neutrality.

All main sectors saw reductions in 2025. Emissions from energy industries decreased for the fourth consecutive year by 7.1% in 2025, to an all-time low as investment in renewables continues to reduce emissions.

In other sectors, buildings emissions were down 4.7%, industry sector emissions were down 3.3%, transport emissions down 1.5% and agriculture down 0.2%. Significantly, the EPA's report shows that the first carbon budget has now been achieved on the back of these record emissions reductions.

We are making significant strides toward our target of 80% renewable energy by 2030. We now have 8GW onshore renewable electricity generation. Regularly throughout the first half of 2026 almost half of Ireland’s electricity demand came from renewable sources. The recent ORESS Tonn Nua offshore wind auction will secure enough clean electricity to power 1,000,000 homes, and we have five Phase One developments progressing through planning this year.

To support this transition, the Government has approved an unprecedented investment of €18.9 billion in the Grid for the period 2026 – 2030. This represents the largest ever investment in our electricity grid, delivering major upgrades and developments to allow for the greater electrification of homes, businesses, and transport.

There are now over 240,000 EVs on Irish roads and, earlier this month, I launched the ICE2EV Scheme which will further accelerate the transition from older, more polluting cars to electric vehicles through targeted financial supports, supported under the Climate Action Fund.

In January this year, I announced the updated National Residential Retrofit Plan which includes new and enhanced measures to make retrofitting supports more accessible to households. In Budget 2026, Government provided a record allocation of €640 million, and with this we are targeting 73,000 home energy upgrades this year.

The Climate Action Delivery Board (CADB), which I chair, and the Climate Action Plan Programme Board (CAPPB) are also now providing oversight of the delivery of our highest impact measures and driving the development of the next Climate Action Plan, which is currently in development and will be published later this year. This Plan will be a more focussed and targeted Plan and will set out my intentions for more action in the coming months and years.

More frequent and intense storms, longer periods of drought, rising sea levels, heatwaves, floods and coastal change are just some of the impacts of our changing climate to which we must adapt.

The Government is committed to protecting Ireland’s present and future generations with a whole of government approach to Climate Adaptation underpinned by the National Adaptation Framework (NAF), published in 2024, and coordinated by my Department via the National Adaptation Steering Committee (NASC).

Ireland’s first National Climate Change Risk Assessment (NCCRA), prepared by the EPA in 2025, was a key deliverable under the NAF. The NCCRA identifies, ranks, and prioritises national climate change risks and areas where action needs to be prioritised to make Ireland more resilient to the impacts of climate change.

Under the NAF and informed by the NCCRA and standardised climate data from Met Éireann, 10 Sectoral Adaptation Plans (SAPs) covering 13 key sectors were approved and published by Government in November 2025. The key sectors fall under the remit of 8 Government Ministers, with each Minister responsible for implementing the SAPs under their remit.

One of the 13 sectors is Flood Risk Management, under the remit of the OPW, the lead body for flood risk management in Ireland, and implementation of the Flood Risk Management SAP. The Flood Risk Management SAP sets out a comprehensive analysis of how climate change will impact current flood risk management policies based on the best available data. It aims to mainstream climate adaptation into flood risk management policies as well as into other policy areas such as planning, water infrastructure and nature based solutions. It establishes longer-term adaptation goals and objectives that can also act as a guide for other sectors in managing increased flood risks that are likely to occur as a result of climate change.

All Sectors were required to collaborate on cross-cutting issues and to consult with Local Authority Climate Action Regional Offices (CAROs) during SAP development. In addition, 31 Local Authority Climate Action Plans (LACAPs) were published in 2024 which include local adaptation actions to build resilience against flood, heat and drought. Since 2022, approximately €19.7m has been paid to local authorities by my Department to develop and implement their LACAPs.

In June 2026, my Department received a business case from the County and City Management Association (CCMA) requesting that provision be made for the existing 110 climate posts in local authorities to become permanent posts. I support this in principle and officials in my Department are currently reviewing the business case with a view to presenting a submission to me.

The Community Climate Action Programme (CCAP), also supported by my Department, empowers communities to shape and build low carbon, sustainable communities in a coherent way. The CCAP has given opportunities to hundreds of groups around the country to access funding for climate measures that directly impact their communities. A number of projects under the programme address periods of drought through the installation of rainwater harvesting and water management systems.

A new Adaptation Taskforce, which I established at the end of last year, provides for senior-level oversight and co-ordination of Ireland’s approach to adaptation including systemic delivery barriers and cross-cutting issues and risks.

The Community Climate Action Programme (CCAP) is funded by my Department through the Climate Action Fund. Across two strands, it supports and empowers communities, in partnership with their Local Authorities, to shape and build low carbon, sustainable communities and contribute to our national climate and energy targets.

Strand 1 of CCAP is providing €56.1 million in funding across two phases to Local Authorities to enable community groups to run projects across five themes: Community Energy, Travel, Food and Waste, Shopping & Recycling, and Local Climate and Environmental Action. The initial phase, funding 650 projects, is due to complete before the end of 2027. Other projects focusing on Climate education and capacity building are funded under Strand 2 of CCAP and the Creative Climate Fund.

In May this year, I announced the second phase of Strand 1 of CCAP valued at €29.5 million. In addition to this funding, I subsequently provided an additional €2.6 million which will enable local authorities fund projects from their reserve lists over the coming months. This combined funding will see a further 820 community projects progressing.

The potential for further rounds of funding under this programme are kept under active review, no further announcements are planned at this time and any future calls will be well signalled in advance.

My Department has no direct function in capturing and recording the information requested. However, there is publicly available aggregated information relating to the above and a number of forthcoming measures which will provide greater insight.

The Value of Data Centres to Ireland, an independent report commissioned by the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, identifies 72 operational, grid-connected data centre buildings as of 2025, predominantly located in the Greater Dublin Area. This report states that currently the industry employs 19,500 directly. Moreover, it can be noted that Ireland’s technology sector, underpinned by digital infrastructure in data centres, accounted for employment of 182,900 people in Q4 2024 - equivalent to 7% of Ireland’s total workforce.

In relation to energy use, electricity is the main source of energy for most data centres operating in Ireland. The Central Statistics Office reports that the percentage share of metered electricity consumption used by data centres in 2025 was 23%.

Uisce Éireann has statutory responsibility for all aspects of public water services including planning, delivery and operation across national, regional and local levels. Uisce Éireann have advised that data centres are not a major driver of demand on the public water supply network, accounting for less than 0.3% of the water supplied by them. Due to advances in cooling technology, modern data centres use relatively small volumes of water. In addition, not all data centres use water from the Uisce Éireann network, with a number of them having their own wells or utilising rainwater harvesting and on-site storage. Uisce Éireann closely monitors water use across all large customers and works with businesses, including data centre operators, to promote efficient and sustainable water use.

Article 12 of the Energy Efficiency Directive 2023/1791 (‘EED’) provides for an obligation for Member States to require that owners and operators of certain sized data centres monitor and make publicly available, subject to Union and national law protecting trade and business secrets and confidentiality, information on key metrics on their energy and sustainability performance. The required indicators relate to energy consumption, cooling, waste heat utilisation, water usage and renewable energy use, among others. Article 12 is supplemented by the directly effective delegated Regulation 2024/1364 which requires the same in-scope data centres, as under Article 12, to report these key performance indicators on their energy performance to a confidential EU database on data centres established and operated by the European Commission. Reporting of this information by data centres in Ireland to this database is ongoing and the Commission is responsible for making it publicly available in an aggregated manner. With respect to the transposition of Article 12, my Department has progressed drafting to an advanced stage. This includes the assignment of compliance oversight which my Department is seeking to implement as soon as possible.

I refer the Deputy to the reply to [Question No 330 of 9 June 2026]. The position is unchanged.

My Department is actively preparing for COP31 in Antalya which will be one of the biggest international events of Ireland’s Presidency and where the Ireland will be tasked with leading negotiations on behalf of the EU.

In preparation for this, my officials are working closely the Commission and the Council Secretariat to ensure that we set strong foundations for COP 31 this November. A key aspect of this collaboration includes efforts to make the EU’s approach to COP 31 and climate diplomacy in general more strategic and outcomes focused.

My officials and I will be conducting outreach to key international partners from now until COP31, hearing from them their priorities for Antalya and seeking to find areas of possible convergence. I have recently returned from attending the High Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development in New York, where I had the opportunity to meet with a number of key international climate partners. I look forward to continuing this engagement in advance of COP31.

My officials and I are currently engaging closely with our EU colleagues to identify the EU's negotiation priorities and prepare its mandate for negotiations, through the preparation of Council Conclusions on Preparations for the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) (Antalya, Türkiye, 9 – 20 November 2026). I will seek the approval of the Environment Council for these Council Conclusions on the 11 October.

Addressing energy affordability is a priority for this Government. That is why in June of last year, my Department established the National Energy Affordability Taskforce, the NEAT, to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses while delivering key renewables commitments, and protecting security of supply and economic stability.

The First Report of the Taskforce informed key aspects of Budget 2026 including:

• a 15% or €5 per week increase to the Fuel Allowance, providing an additional €140 to recipients during the annual fuel allowance season;

• eligibility for the Fuel Allowance was also expanded to include those in receipt of the Working Family Payment;

• an extension of the reduced VAT rate of 9% which is applied to gas and electricity to 2030. This provides clarity and certainty to energy consumers and reduces energy bills for households by up to €100 per year; and

• the €400 income tax disregard for households involved in microgeneration was extended for a further three years to end-2028.

The NEAT continues to work intensively on an Energy Affordability Action Plan to be submitted to Government in Q3 of this year. Publication of the Action Plan will follow approval by Government. This Action Plan will be focused on short, medium and longer term measures to support households and businesses in meeting their energy costs and will be built around 4 key pillars:

• addressing the price of energy;

• sustainable demand and enhancing flexibility;

• addressing energy poverty and customer protections; and

• energy affordability for businesses.

To facilitate this robust and coordinated cross-Government response, a number of NEAT subgroups have been established, bringing together officials from a wide range of Government Departments and Agencies. A period of intensive engagement to refine options for consideration by the Taskforce is currently underway, with subgroups meeting on an ongoing basis. This will include a determination of timelines for the actions included in the Plan.

The Government has committed in the Programme for Government to resourcing and delivering a successful Presidency. In line with that commitment, the Revised Estimates for 2026 included an allocation of €4m to my Department to cover the estimated costs associated with the Department’s responsibility for leading and delivery of the Presidency Priorities at both EU and International Level.

It is customary for modest mementos to be given, usually to senior-level Heads of Delegation at meetings in the host country, to strengthen goodwill and promote domestic craftsmanship . In line with agreed guidance, my Department procured gifts of Irish pens for the Heads of Delegation attending the Informal Meeting of Environment Ministers which took place in Dublin Castle on 24 July.

As part of staff engagement within my Department, the Presidency Team invited staff to vote on a design of a commemorative lapel Pin. The winning design was produced and distributed to all staff within my Department.

The final costs of the Irish Presidency to the Department will not be known until 2027, once all the work is complete and the final bills are paid. In the meantime, every effort is being made to ensure costs are being well managed across all areas.

Details of events planned by my Department throughout the duration of the Presidency are available at irish-presidency.consilium.europa.eu/en/.

The arrangements to be observed by office holders in respect of gifts of goods or services are set out in the Guidelines on Compliance with the Provisions of the Ethics in Public Office Acts 1995 and 2001 which are published on the website of the Standards in Public Office Commission.

Statements made annually by office holders must include all gifts of goods and services which exceed €650 in value. These statements are published in Iris Oifigiúil and are also available on the website of the Houses of the Oireachtas.

The table below outlines gifts received, of nominal value, in my time as Minister in the Department.

The table below sets out a breakdown of spending on media training or strategic consultants in preparation for Oireachtas committees in my Department since 2022.

Between 2022 and 2026, 20 staff members completed external training in preparation for Oireachtas committees at a cost of €4650.00. Training helps officials prepare for Oireachtas committee appearances by ensuring they understand the process, can explain issues clearly and are ready to respond to questions.

The information requested in relation to the agencies under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each agency. In that context , you should contact the agency directly. Each Agency has a dedicated email address for Oireachtas members and these are set out in the attached table.

My Department has an approved policy for the use of Artificial Intelligence which is in line with DPENDR’s Guidelines for the Responsible Use of A.I. in the Public Service (2025) and the National Cyber Security Centre’s (NCSC) Securing AI Adoption in the Public Sector Cyber Security Guidelines for AI Deployments (2026).

This policy establishes the principles, governance framework and oversight arrangements for the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the Department to enable innovation and efficiency while protecting public trust, personal data, security and legal compliance.

Following the completion of a recent AI pilot, Microsoft Copilot Chat is now being rolled out to all staff, subject to completion of mandatory AI training.

General use cases include:

• Drafting, summarising, or translating material that does not contain sensitive or restricted information

• Research and information gathering using non-sensitive data

• Productivity and administrative support tasks using approved tools

All outputs are subject to human oversight and are reviewed, verified, and validated by authorised personnel prior to any use.

I can confirm to the Deputy that I do not use personal email addresses for Government business.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 234 and 235 together.

My Ministerial phone is issued and managed by the Department of Transport. As such, that Department will address the queries raised in the Question.

This Government is committed to delivering on Ireland’s responsibility to address the climate crisis and work remains ongoing across Government Departments to carry out climate mitigation efforts every day.

The EPA's latest Greenhouse Gas Inventory, published earlier this month, shows that Ireland has recorded overall greenhouse gas emission reductions for a fourth consecutive year, and that we have now achieved the first carbon budget on the back of these record emissions reductions.

Ireland now has the lowest level of GHG emissions in 36 years which is notable given a concurrent population increase of approximately 1.5 million people, more than one million new homes and over one million extra vehicles on our roads. Given the strong economic growth over this period, we can see a clear decoupling of growth from emissions which is a key milestone in Ireland's transition to climate neutrality.

We are making significant strides toward our target of 80% renewable energy by 2030. We now have 8GW onshore renewable electricity generation and in April 2026 Ireland recorded a new peak of 1 GW of solar generated electricity on the grid at one time, enough to power around 500,000 customers. Regularly throughout the first half of 2026 almost half of Ireland’s electricity demand came from renewable sources.

The recent ORESS Tonn Nua offshore wind auction will secure enough clean electricity to power 1,000,000 homes, and we have five Phase One developments progressing through planning this year. We are now accelerating the National Designated Maritime Area Plan (DMAP) for offshore renewable energy, which will identify sites for additional renewable energy development.

To support this transition, the Government has approved an unprecedented investment of €18.9 billion in the Grid for the period 2026 – 2030. This represents the largest ever investment in our electricity grid, delivering major upgrades and developments to allow for the greater electrification of homes, businesses, and transport.

The Climate Action Delivery Board (CADB), which I chair, and the Climate Action Plan Programme Board (CAPPB) are also now providing oversight of the delivery of our highest impact measures and driving the development of the next Climate Action Plan, which is currently in development and will be published later this year.

EPA analysis for their latest emissions projections, published in May of this year, show that planned climate policies and measures, if fully implemented, could deliver up to 25 per cent emissions reduction by 2030 compared to 2018, up from the 23 per cent reduction projected the previous year. This narrowing gap to the emissions reduction target of 51 per cent in Ireland’s Climate Act was driven by updated information provided by Government bodies, and reflects significant progress in our largest-emitting sectors.

It worth noting that the EPA's projections are updated annually in light of delivery progress and emerging data, and their definitive assessment of Ireland's performance against the 2030 target will be made after that date. For example, in 2018 emissions were projected to decrease by only 1% under the WAM scenario by 2030, and are now projected to decrease by 25% under that scenario.

Our focus is on continuing to narrow the projected gap to the 2030 target through accelerated delivery of emissions reduction measures, supported by our recently strengthened climate governance and delivery structures.

I refer to the replies to Questions Nos. 181 and 185 of 2 July. The position remains unchanged.

The Climate Action Fund (CAF) was established on a statutory basis, with effect from 1 August 2020. The current balance in the CAF stands at €247.59 million.

To date, over €270m of support has been provided from the CAF for projects that contribute to the achievement of Ireland’s climate and energy targets and increase climate resilience and greenhouse gas removals in the State. Over €200 million is also committed to projects in the coming years.

Some of the recent project announcements include up to €30 million allocation from the Climate Action Fund to support the EV Purchase Grant Scheme, to maintain continuity and certainty of support in the context of strong and sustained demand.

Furthermore, €10 million pilot Scrappage Scheme has been approved, designed to accelerate fleet turnover by incentivising, the permanent removal of older, higher polluting vehicles. This scrappage payment is in addition to the existing €3,500 EV purchase grant, providing a total support of up to €8,500 per vehicle for eligible applicant.

In May 2026, successful projects under Community Climate Action Programme Phase 2 were announced. The programme will see funding being provided from the CAF to all local authorities to partner with community groups to run 820 projects nationwide that will contribute to national climate and energy targets.

Wicklow County Council has received funding through both phases of the Community Climate Action Programme. The Phase one allocation amounted to €646,000.00 and Phase two allocation amounts €766,469.36.

Other funding includes the Schools PV Programme which sees 85 schools in Wicklow approved for funding amounting to a total of €751,381.36.

Wicklow County Council along with 9 other local authorities receive funding for the Eastern Region Public Lighting Energy Efficiency Projects (PLEEP) project, led by Kilkenny County Council, with a total allocation of €6,830,150.06.

The Business Energy Update Scheme, which is one of the two programmes ran by SEAI, has an allocation of €380,399.40 for Wicklow. Another SEAI programme, Pathfinder which supports public sector energy retrofits and decarbonisation, has provided €583,092 in funding to Wicklow County Council. Pathfinder programme has also issued payment to Department of Education and Youth for schools in Wicklow for the amount of € 745,928.08.

Under the national programme ESB Electric Vehicle High Power Charger Infrastructure Development Project the CAF has allocated a total of €10 million to ESB.

Figures in relation to unredeemed deposits are published by Re-turn in their Annual Report and Financial Statements. The value of unredeemed deposits retained by Re-turn in respect of 2024 was €66.7 million, as shown in Re-turn’s Annual Report & Financial Statements for 2024, available at the following location: media.re-turn.ie/wp-content/uploads/2024-Annual-Report.pdf

Re-turn has not yet published its Annual Report & Financial Statements for 2025 but, when published, they will include a final audited figure for the level of unredeemed deposits during 2025. Final, audited figures for unredeemed deposits in 2026 will be reported next year.

A county-by-county breakdown relating to unredeemed deposits is not available. A container purchased in one county may be returned to a location in another county, and so any such breakdown would not give a true reflection of the scheme’s overall performance.

Regulation 4(3) of the Separate Collection (Deposit Return Scheme) Regulations 2024 (S.I. No. 33 of 2024) sets out how unredeemed deposits are one of the sources of funding for operation of the scheme. These funds generated must be re-invested in its operation. I am however considering whether unredeemed deposits could be used to fund other activities that promote and support Ireland’s transition to a Circular Economy.

Re-Turn is a producer-led and owned, not-for-profit company established by beverage producers to meet their obligations under the Separate Collection (Deposit Return Scheme) Regulations, and is responsible for all operational matters relating to the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS).

Following the scheme's launch in February 2024, Re-Turn received feedback from some consumers living with a disability about the challenges they have experienced accessing the scheme. In response, Re-Turn launched a consultation process to review the accessibility of the deposit return scheme for people with disabilities and mobility issues. The resulting report, published during 2025, makes a holistic assessment of the barriers to accessibility and is available on Re-Turn's website at the following link:

https://re-turn.ie/wp-content/uploads/Re-turn-Accessibility-Project-Phase-1-and-2.pdf

Re-Turn is developing solutions that are co-designed with people with disabilities, alongside retailers, RVM suppliers and other stakeholders. This work is focused on how accessibility can be improved through clearer and more accessible DRS information, better usability of RVMs, and recently updated retailer accessibility guidelines. Officials of the Department participate in Re-turn’s Accessibility Advisory Group and continue to monitor progress.

With regard to reliability, Re-Turn has advised that where a retailer operates an RVM, the retailer remains responsible for the day-to-day operation of that return point, including ensuring that the machine can accept containers, that associated receptacles are managed appropriately, and that full machines are emptied and prepared for collection.

Re-Turn, as scheme operator, plays an active role in supporting retailers to meet these obligations. This includes monitoring the overall availability of RVM infrastructure nationwide, store visits, education manuals, and working with retailers and their RVM provider as required.

Reports of inoperative RVMs should be made in the first instance to the customer service desk or store manager of the specific location, to arrange for routine maintenance such as emptying. For systemic issues or recurring problems, reports may be made to Re-Turn, who will follow up and take the appropriate action. The relevant contact details are at this link https://re-turn.ie/consumer/.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 242 and 250 together.

The basis of exemptions from the obligations of the Deposit Return Scheme are set out in Regulation 17 of the Separate Collection (Deposit Return Scheme) Regulations 2024 (S.I. No. 33 of 2024).

Regulation 17(1) states that a retailer shall be exempted from the obligation to charge a deposit where an in-scope product is purchased and intended to be consumed on the premises.

Regulation 17(2) states a retailer may, subject to agreement with the approved body, be exempted from the obligation to take back in-scope products in the case of:

a. a retailer with a store size of less than or equal to 250m2 in respect of that store;

b. an hotel, restaurant or public house or similar premises used for the sale to members of the public of food or drink for consumption on the premises;

c. where an in-scope product is purchased through online sales; and

d. where an in-scope product is purchased through a vending machine.

Re-Turn, the approved body for the operation of the Deposit Return Scheme, has advised that to end June 2026, a total of 9,293 premises nationwide have been granted an exemption from the scheme however a breakdown of premises by type, or premises on a county-by-county basis is not currently available. I would encourage the Deputy to engage with Re-Turn directly should he be concerned by exemptions in County Wicklow.

The Sceirde Rocks project was a 450 MW offshore wind project that was one of four successful bidders in my Department's first offshore wind auction in 2023. The project was owned by Corio Generation who announced a planned corporate restructuring on 8 April 2025 that would see them focus on a smaller portfolio of projects worldwide. By letter of 25 April, Corio formally notified my Department that the Sceirde Rocks project would not proceed. This notification terminated the ORESS support contract for the project, which meant that Corio's €35.5 million performance security under the contract was forfeit. This was paid over by the relevant bank in June 2025 and transferred to the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, as required by Government financial procedures.

The Government has taken, and is continuing to take, actions to help households and businesses with the cost of fuel and energy. At this point, the €750 million in supports already provided by the Irish Government in response to the war in the Middle East is one of the more significant in the EU. This package was announced following significant engagement with industry representatives.

A cross-Government National Energy Affordability Taskforce (NEAT) was established June 2025 to identify and implement measures to enhance energy affordability for households and businesses. The first report of the NEAT, published last November, helped to inform key aspects of Budget 2026. The NEAT is now preparing an Energy Affordability Action Plan that will be completed in Q3 of this year. As part of this process, we are engaging with business groups to identify the most impacted businesses and to help them to take action.

These additional considerations are alongside a range of permanent supports that are available, many of which I have expanded or enhanced since becoming Minister. My Department offers a range of grants through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) which are focused on supporting the SME sector to become more energy efficient. Over €83.5m has been awarded to businesses across Ireland in SEAI grants in 2024 and 2025, with over 7,000 businesses receiving grant support for solar PV, heat pumps, energy efficient equipment, commercial EV fleets, projects delivered in partnership with local communities and clean heat technology. As I have already indicated, take up of these schemes is growing, and I have ensured that there is funding available to meet this demand.

Through the recently launched ‘Easy Wins’ campaign, the SEAI on behalf of my Department is emphasising accessible, SME-tailored supports that help businesses to adopt energy-saving approaches and technologies, many of which are low-cost with quick payback, and that businesses can implement immediately to reduce energy demand and exposure to price shocks. These schemes include free energy management training and audits as well as very rapid approval grants.

These supports, in combination with immediate tips and advice delivered through multiple channels, allow businesses to develop strategies and understand common approaches to manage and conserve energy without making major investments. These strategies can range from changing of setpoints for heating and cooling, to installation of timeclocks and energy monitors.

The Support Scheme for Energy Audits provides support to fully cover the costs of a typical energy audit. The scheme enables businesses to rapidly identify energy saving measures, giving them a roadmap to save money, including no and low-cost steps that can be taken immediately. It is open to all public and private sector organisations that are not already required to carry out an energy audit under the Energy Efficiency Directive.

The Business Energy Upgrades Scheme has been designed for greater accessibility to support small and medium enterprises in Ireland and can give grant approval for a range of ‘off the shelf’ supports in as little as 15 minutes. This scheme is open to all businesses, public sectors bodies, societies and charities and has been growing rapidly since I launched it last year.

The Non-Domestic Microgen Scheme provides financial assistance to help businesses and other sectors to install solar PV panels to generate electricity on site. Grants are available for systems up to a maximum of €162,600 for installations of up to 1000kWp. From its launch in 2022 to May 2026, this scheme has supported 2,791 installations totalling over €30m. There are over 1,400 applications in progress for this scheme, showing that demand is accelerating.

The Community Energy Grant (CEG) Scheme is the longest standing scheme that supports business and provides grant support for cross-sectoral projects, supporting new approaches to achieving energy efficiency in Irish communities. The CEG Scheme provides funding for a range of improvements to existing buildings, including insulation, heat pump systems, solar PV, energy-efficient lighting, and energy monitors, as well as other energy upgrades.

There is also a range of supports available through the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment and its agencies, to help businesses reduce energy consumption and operating costs. The Energy Efficiency Grant, available through the Local Enterprise Offices, offers 75% of project costs up to a maximum amount of €10,000 and is open to all small businesses with up to 50 employees. This is a great way for businesses to begin their energy efficiency journey. 678 businesses invested with the help of the energy efficiency grant in 2025 with more than €5.7m in support committed to these projects. Enterprise Ireland's Climate Action Voucher offers up to €1,800 to fund two days of independent consultancy to help companies to identify and act on energy-saving opportunities. 223 vouchers were approved in 2025.

Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland clients in the manufacturing sector can avail of the €300m Environmental Aid Fund which supports investments in energy efficiency and decarbonisation in Ireland’s manufacturing sectors.

Farmers who wish to set up a solar or wind project where all energy is exported to the grid are supported via the Small-scale Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (SRESS). The SRESS export tariff is designed for farmer, community and SME export only projects above 50kW and up to 6MW. The SRESS offers a simpler route to market for those groups, with fixed tariffs for solar and wind. Farmers can apply to SRESS in one of two ways—on their own (on the same basis as SMEs) or as members of Renewable Energy Communities. Farmers who wish to establish an export project greater than the SRESS limit of 6MW can participate in the utility scale Renewable Electricity Support Scheme auction.

The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) sets out the minimum service requirements, including customer protection measures for all domestic households, including renters, that energy suppliers must adhere to in the CRU Supplier Handbook. These rules are in place to ensure that customers experience a high standard of protection when interacting with energy suppliers. A Code of Practice on Vulnerable Customers is also in place.

The definition of Vulnerable Customers is set out in Regulation 2 of Statutory Instrument No. 463 of 2011. Under this Regulation, energy suppliers must establish and maintain:

a Priority Services Register of customers critically dependent on electrically powered equipment, which shall include but is not limited to life protecting devices; assistive technologies to support independent living; and medical equipment; and

a Special Services Register of customers particularly vulnerable to disconnection during Winter months for reasons of advanced age or physical, sensory, intellectual or mental health challenges.

Current best practice as conducted by suppliers allows customers to self-register as ‘priority vulnerable’ (those customers dependent on life protective equipment), or ‘special-services vulnerable’ (those customers who require additional protection from being unduly affected during the Winter months). A supplier may require a customer to demonstrate eligibility for inclusion on their register which may necessitate the provision of medical confirmation of vulnerability.

Each year, the CRU carries out a review on the effectiveness of customer protection measures over the past Winter, as well as deciding the measures to be retained for the forthcoming winter. The Review for 2025/2026 was published in September of last year and set out the range of customer protections in place for this Winter, including:

a disconnection moratorium for reasons of non-payment of account for special services registered vulnerable customers which remained in place from 1 November 2025 to 31 March 2026, while the moratorium for priority services registered customers will remain in place all year;

suppliers are required to ensure that all customers with a financial hardship meter are placed on the most economic or cheapest tariff. This includes a tariff that might otherwise only be available to, for example, a new customer or a customer as a retention offer; and

promotion by energy suppliers of the vulnerable customer register.

The CRU will confirm enhanced customer protection measures for Winter 26/27 in due course.

The customer protections are complemented by the supplier-led Energy Engage Code that provides a further level of security for domestic electricity and gas customers. This Code encourages customers, who are having difficulty in paying a bill, to engage with their supplier regarding the management of debt. Under this Code, suppliers will not disconnect customers who engage with them and must provide every opportunity to customers to avoid disconnection.

The CRU provides a dedicated email address for Oireachtas members, which enables them to raise questions on general energy regulatory matters at oireachtas@cru.ie

The heat sector, as it currently stands, is for the most part unregulated and requires a regulatory framework for heat networks to be put in place. The Heat (Networks and Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2024 has been developed to achieve this outcome by, among other things, appointing the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) as regulator for heat networks with responsibility for ensuring consumer protection for the sector.

The Heat Bill will introduce consumer protections for existing and new district heating, and communal heating customers including placing a requirement, in line with existing requirements in the electricity and gas sectors, on entities supplying heat to consumers to establish a register of vulnerable customers. The CRU will also be provided with a range of sanctions to pursue heat undertakings that fail to comply with regulatory requirements placed upon them.

Following extensive engagement with stakeholders, Government recently approved necessary revisions designed to strengthen a number of the Heads contained in the Bill. Officials from my Department continue to actively engage with the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel, my Department's own Legal Unit, and external stakeholders in order to progress the legislation towards enactment.

Figures in relation to the return rate of in-scope containers under the Deposit Return Scheme are included in the Annual Reports published by Re-Turn, the approved body for the operation of the scheme.

While Re-Turn have not yet published their Annual Report for 2025, the company announced in March of this year that the scheme's return rate at that point was approximately 76%.

Re-Turn is a not-for-profit company, which is producer-led and owned, and was established by beverage producers to meet their obligations under the Separate Collection (Deposit Return Scheme) Regulations 2024 (S.I. No. 33 of 2024).

It is obliged to publish Annual Reports and Financial Statements, and the publications in respect of 2024 are available via the following link:

https://media.re-turn.ie/wp-content/uploads/2024-Annual-Report.pdf

The Annual Report and Financial Statements in respect of 2025 have not yet been published.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 251, 252 and 253 together.

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the attached table.

The information requested in relation to the agencies under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each agency and as such the Deputy may wish to contact those agencies directly. Contact details are set out in the attached document for ease of reference.

Exchequer funding

The Light Tactical Armoured Vehicle, the RG32M, entered service in 2010 to enhance the Defence Forces' protected mobility capability and has been employed extensively both at home and overseas, supporting the Defence Forces across a range of operational roles including patrols, convoy protection, force protection and Quick Reaction Force tasks. They have been deployed on multiple UN and EU peace support missions, where their combination of mobility, protection and adaptability has proven particularly valuable in complex and austere environments.

These vehicles are now approaching end of life, and are being withdrawn from active service, and are due for replacement. No decision has yet been made regarding the manner in which these vehicles will be disposed. Options for the disposal of the Light Tactical Armoured Vehicle fleet are being considered by the Department.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 255 to 257, inclusive, together.

As the Deputy may be aware, the Curragh, as State land vested in the Minister for Defence, is recognised as a working environment for the state's Defence Forces as well as being a place of historic and cultural importance. The Curragh Plains at approximately 4,870 acres, is one of the most open and accessible areas in the country. This can present challenges for management around illegal camping and illegal dumping.

Illegal dumping and fly-tipping on the Curragh Plains has quite often resulted in significant expenses for the Department of Defence. In the last several years, costs have been very high owing to a preponderance of illegal encampments on the Curragh. While it has been necessary to remedy issues of occasional fly-tipping, the majority of services now rendered relate to the aftermath of illegal encampments which can include large amounts of biological and household waste.

I am informed that the total expenditure incurred by my Department on environmental clean-ups carried out on the Curragh Plains, County Kildare, including those arising from illegal encampments and associated fly-tipping for the years requested is set out in the table below. These costs include waste collection from the Curragh and disposal to a licensed waste management facility. The table shown below indicates the amount spent on illegal dumping and other related matters such as works for necessary maintenance on the Plains such as remedial work following storms, cutting of trees, harrowing cut-up ground and repairing of sheep pens. Those services are now generally contracted to individual contractors with a separate main contract for waste collection and disposal only. In recognition of the significant impact of illegal encampments in recent years, my Department now records the costs arising from illegal encampments and associated fly-tipping separately from 2025 onwards.

My Department does not hold records on the number of separate encampments or numbers of caravans present in locations for the years 2016 to 2019. I am informed that following an earlier review of Departmental files, there are records from 1966 documenting occurrences of trespass on the Curragh.

The Department of Defence have been actively pursuing all available legal measures to protect the plains.

My officials have recently been working in tandem with the Chief State Solicitor's Office (CSSO) with regard to these illegal encampments on the Curragh. My officials have acted promptly to ensure action is taken to protect the Plains and since the end of May 2026 have secured three (3) High Court orders against those in illegal occupation. These orders have been served on those in illegal occupation. We have no records of non-trespass or injunction orders sought by his Department in respect of the Curragh Plains prior to 1992.

I was unfortunately unable to attend the Naval Service Commissioning Ceremony on Thursday 25th June 2026 as I was required to appear before the Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade for the Committee Stage consideration of the Israeli Settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (Prohibition of Importation of Goods) Bill 2026.

A Ministerial colleague had been due to attend on my behalf. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, that was no longer possible at short notice and it was not possible to arrange an alternative ministerial representative.

On 21st July, I met with the newly commissioned Naval Service officers in person to congratulate them on achieving this significant milestone. Their commissioning reflects the dedication, professionalism and commitment they have shown throughout their training, and marks the beginning of an important chapter of service to the State.

I wish them every success in their future careers and thank them for their commitment to serving Ireland.

The Office of the Ombudsman serves as an office of independent external review for existing and former members of the Defence Forces. It was established under the Ombudsman (Defence Forces) 2004 Act and it's roles and responsibilities are clearly set out in the legislation.

As the Deputy may be aware, the Defence Forces Joint Recruitment Office interfaces with significant numbers of candidates on an annual basis. The number of applicants seeking careers in the Defence Forces has grown substantially in the last three years, culminating in a total of more than 16,500 applications in 2025. A further 11,800 applications have been received to the end of June of this year, a reflection of the continuing growth in interest levels in a career in the Defence Forces and the wide range of positions currently available and open to prospective candidates. A new rigorous and transparent Applicant Tracking System is in place since January of this year.

Any specific cases or individual issues concerning the recruitment process brought to the attention of the Defence Forces or Department are fully investigated and applicants are informed of the outcome as appropriate.

All elements of the recruitment process remain the subject of ongoing review by my Department and the Defence Forces.

This issue is part of the ongoing 2027 Budget negotiations. In that context, it is not appropriate to comment at this time.

There are three bodies under the aegis of my Department; the Army Pensions Board, the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces and the External Oversight Body of the Defence Forces (EOB), which was placed on a statutory basis on 1 December 2024.

As with all Departments, the organisational details for my Department from Principal Officer upwards are publicly available on the Government website; whodoeswhat.gov.ie. This includes the role of each individual. Any queries from members of the Oireachtas can be sent to minister@defence.ie. The contact details for each of the bodies under the aegis of my Department are listed in the table below.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 262 to 264, inclusive, together.

The report of the European Committee of Social Rights (ECSR) was published in February of this year. This Report relates to Ireland's compliance with the European Social Charter on two specific issues - compensation for work carried out by Defence Forces personnel on public holidays and arrangements for compensation for additional hours worked. The ECSR rejected two other complaints submitted in relation to similar matters, as unsubstantiated.

It is important to note that the European Committee on Social Rights also found that "several positive developments" have been progressed by Ireland in relation to these issues. In particular, the removal of the blanket exemption for the Defence Forces from the Organisation of Working Time Act, in January 2025, was acknowledged. The introduction of a system for recording hours of attendance was also recognised.

I understand that the ECSR will issue a formal Resolution or Recommendation on the complaint which will be delivered from the Council of Europe's Committee of Ministers in October of this year. My Department will give careful consideration to the report and review it in the context of the decision reached, in conjunction with EU and National obligations.

In relation to the system for recording hours of attendance, the Defence Forces currently operate a manual system. As the Deputy will be aware, an electronic time and attendance recording system has been procured and I understand that it will be ready for roll out by the end of the year. The manual system will continue to operate until the electronic solution is fully implemented.

With Ireland assuming the Presidency of the EU from July this year, I had prioritised the delivery of Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) capabilities for the Defence Forces.

I can confirm that following Dáil approval on 16 December 2025 of a Supplementary Estimate which provided for the accelerated procurement of C-UAS capabilities in advance of the Presidency, contractual arrangements were put in place which have enabled the delivery of these capabilities during the first half of this year. Further roll-out of C-UAS capabilities will continue this year.

A key priority for me as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the operational capacity of the Defence Forces is maintained and developed in line with the Government’s decision to move to a higher level of ambition, specifically LOA2, as defined by the Commission on the Defence Forces (CODF).

Amongst its recommendations on capability development, the Commission recommended the development of a primary radar capability to ensure that Ireland can maintain a complete ‘Recognised Air Picture’, and that this should be an immediate and top priority. This is being progressed under the Military Radar Programme which comprises the following three elements: Land based Long Range Primary Radar; Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD) systems, to include a Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) capability; and Maritime (ship-borne) Radar.

This programme of work is ongoing and very good progress has been made. Towards the end of last year, the Preliminary Business Case for the Military Radar Programme was approved. This concluded that a Government-level approach with one country was the preferred option and, in line with this approach, my Department immediately commenced detailed negotiations with France on a potential agreement for the delivery of all capability requirements under the Programme. These negotiations are ongoing with the French authorities and, while I am unable to be more specific at this particular time, I can confirm that excellent progress has been made.

While full delivery of the Programme will be complex; it has been prioritised with a target date of the end of 2028 identified in the updated CODF Detailed Implementation Plan, which I published recently, for the development of a complete Recognised Air Picture. That being said, elements of the overall Programme will be rolled out in phases, starting with elements of the Counter-UAS capabilities which are currently in place, with a view to full delivery of the "Recognised Air Picture" being achieved by the end of 2028.

Training undertaken by civil servants of my Department in relation to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and AI-related capability development since 1 January 2024 is set out below. My Department's approach comprises foundational AI awareness training, specialist and advanced AI professional development programmes, and cybersecurity awareness programmes containing AI-related content.

Since January 2024, 412 staff, representing 84.3% of my Department's workforce of 489 employees, have completed at least one AI-related programme. This reflects a commitment to building AI awareness and capability across the organisation while supporting the responsible and secure adoption of emerging technologies. Further details of participation levels and associated expenditure are provided below.

As employees may participate in more than one programme, the figures contained within the individual tables represent course participation and should not be aggregated to determine the total number of staff trained.

Foundational AI Awareness and Responsible Use Programmes (OneLearning and Departmental Training)

The following table relates to AI-related programmes hosted on, or provided through, the Civil Service learning platform OneLearning, managed by the Institute of Public Administration, together with Departmental AI awareness training. Participation figures include enrolments, courses in progress and courses completed. No additional cost arises in respect of these programmes as they were developed and delivered through existing Civil Service and Departmental resources.

Specialist and Advanced AI Development Programmes

These programmes are specialist or advanced learning opportunities aimed at developing practical AI capability, governance knowledge and professional expertise.

Total expenditure on externally provided AI-related training was €10,637.15.

Cybersecurity and AI Awareness Programmes (MetaCompliance Platform)

My Department’s ICT Branch has engaged MetaCompliance to provide interactive security awareness and compliance learning modules that educate employees on cybersecurity threats, data protection responsibilities, company policies and safe workplace behaviours to reduce organisational risk. These modules include content relating to AI-enabled threats and the responsible use of emerging technologies.

In terms of costs, my Department’s contract with MetaCompliance is based on an annual subscription fee. Costs are not assigned on a course-by-course basis and therefore no specific charge can be attributed to individual AI-related modules or levels of uptake. The annual cost remains the same regardless of the number of employees completing any particular module.

The 2026/2027 contract period is currently under tender.

My Department continues to support the responsible and effective use of AI through a range of learning and development initiatives. These programmes are designed to increase awareness of AI technologies, strengthen digital capability and ensure compliance with relevant governance, data protection and cybersecurity requirements across the organisation.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 268 to 270, inclusive, together.

On 9 September 2025, the Department of Defence entered into a contractual agreement with an external service provider (ASG Ltd) to provide Flight Information Service Officer (FISO) services at the Aerodrome. The contract put in place, with the agreement of the military authorities, has assisted the Air Corps in restoring operational flight activities on a 24 hour 7 day a week basis from December 2025.

For reasons of operational sensitivity and national security, it is not the policy of the Department of Defence to disclose specific data regarding military aircraft movements. Disclosing a detailed breakdown of fixed or rotary wing movements during out of hours periods could compromise the operational and security protocols at the Aerodrome.

I can assure the Deputy that all contracted flight information services at the aerodrome operate under rigorous oversight. This ensures compliance with military aviation safety frameworks and maintains the operational readiness of the Defence Forces. The amount paid to the contractor in Quarter 1 this year was €544,795 (incl VAT).

As the Deputy will be aware, there are multiple factors that influence retention levels and this is broadly experienced across all militaries internationally. That said, I am pleased to say that actions taken to date are having a measurable impact on stabilisation efforts.

Turnover levels in the Permanent Defence Force are carefully monitored and data provided by the Defence Forces indicates that turnover rates have reduced over the last two years with a turnover rate of approximately 7.6% in 2025. This compares favourably with militaries internationally where annual attrition rates of 8 to 12 per cent are typical.

The objective is to keep attrition as low as reasonably practicable while maintaining operational capability.

Several measures are being implemented to mitigate attrition and strengthen workforce stability including increases in the maximum ages for recruitment and retirement, the extension of private secondary healthcare to all personnel, the application of the provisions of the Working Time Directive across the Defence Forces, subject to certain exemptions, increases to the Patrol Duty Allowance payable to Naval Service personnel at sea, and the extension of the Naval Service Tax Credit to 2029.

A draft Strategic Workforce Plan prepared by the Defence Forces has been submitted to me for consideration. The draft plan sets out a roadmap for building and sustaining the future workforce. As the Deputy will be aware, the aim of this process is to provide a pathway to the achievement of a strength of 11,500, inclusive of civilian personnel, commensurate with Level of Ambition 2.

In addition, Local Bargaining measures are being introduced to support initiatives to improve retention in key capability areas. Over the 2026-2030 timeframe of the Defence NDP, I have committed €400 million in funding for infrastructural investment, a level of funding which will deliver enhanced accommodation, offices, gyms etc to military installations nationwide, together with more targeted investment on the development of specific requirements such as aircraft hangars and naval berthage capacity.

I want to reassure the Deputy that stabilising the numbers of Defence Force personnel and facilitating the capacity for further increases is a key priority for me as Minister for Defence.

My officials have requested details from the military authorities on the matters raised by the Deputy. I will respond to you in due course, subject to any operational and security related concerns.

I propose to take Question 273 and Question 274 together.

At the outset, I wish to assure the Deputy that I recognise the outstanding contribution made to the State by our ex-service personnel.

The work of the Office of Veterans Affairs, established by the Government last November, has been focused on researching the development of a National Veterans Policy, while also continuing with its other functions of advocating on behalf of veterans and partnership with the associations.

The OVA's approach to the development of a Veterans' Policy is guided by the need to fully consider all relevant research and evidence, and includes close consultations with the recognised Veteran Associations and other stakeholders. The regular quarterly meetings with the Veteran Associations provide a forum for these discussions. It is anticipated that formal consultations will take place in the autumn and that the Department will develop a draft policy following the consultation process. This approach will help ensure that any future policy is informed by robust evidence and reflects the full range of issues affecting the veteran community.

In this regard, my Department welcomed the recent publication of Óglaigh Náisiúnta na hÉireann's (ONE) research report, ‘Veterans of the Defence Forces’. The report is currently being examined by the OVA and represents an important contribution to the research that will inform a National Veterans Policy.

The valuable insights provided by this research into the profile, experiences, and needs of veterans will support the OVA's ongoing work. In parallel, the OVA continues to engage with the Veteran Associations and to work towards ensuring that veterans can access the benefits, services, and supports to which they are entitled.

I am happy to again outline the Government’s intentions regarding the Defence (Amendment) Bill 2026. This key legislation is a priority for me as Minister for Defence and for the Government.

Government approval for the text of the Defence (Amendment) Bill was received on 9 June last. The Bill has been published on the Oireachtas website and will then be progressed through the Houses of the Oireachtas. It is my intention to see the legislation enacted and commenced at the earliest opportunity.

The principal reform proposed in the Bill is the removal of the requirement for a United Nations Security Council mandate as part of the existing so-called "triple lock" mechanism. The other two elements - a Government decision and the approval of Dáil Éireann - will remain in place.

The Government’s view is that the current arrangements effectively allow the permanent members of the UN Security Council to constrain Ireland’s sovereign decision-making through the use, or threat, of a veto. This can impact Ireland’s ability to participate in peace support and crisis-management operations that are consistent with our values and international obligations.

I am aware that some Deputies have expressed concerns that changes to the triple lock could affect Ireland’s neutrality. However, as I have repeatedly stated, the Government's position is clear: military neutrality is not defined by the triple lock mechanism, which is a statutory provision rather than a constitutional requirement. The proposed amendments will not alter Ireland’s long-standing policy of military neutrality or military non-alignment.

The objective of the Bill is to ensure that decisions regarding the deployment of Defence Forces personnel overseas continue to be made by Ireland’s democratically elected institutions, while maintaining full compliance with international law and preserving Ireland’s proud tradition of peacekeeping and peace support operations.

The details requested cannot be provided in the time allowed. I have asked my officials to collate this data and I will write to you on this in due course.

There are currently seven (6.7 WTE) Higher Executive Officers assigned to my Department's ICT Branch, four of which are ICT Specialists. An additional HEO ICT specialist has recently been assigned by Publicjobs and is due to start imminently, which will bring the total number of HEO ICT specialists to five.

Please see the following table for a further breakdown of the various categories of ICT specialist at HEO Grade.

The Department of Defence ensures that there is an appropriate focus on good practice in procurement and purchasing and that procedures are in place to ensure compliance with all relevant guidelines.

In 2025, the Contracts Register for the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces lists 856 contracts with a value in excess of €25,000 ex vat. The Department complied with the procurement guidelines in all but five contracts (in excess of €25,000 ex vat), totalling €182,947 (ex VAT). These five contracts were awarded under the negotiated procedure without publication but did not follow the arrangements laid down in Department of Finance Circular 40-2002.

This indicates that numerically 0.58% of contracts with a value in excess of €25,000 ex vat across the Defence Organisation were assessed as non-compliant in 2025. Over 99% of contracts in excess of €25,000 ex VAT were found to be compliant in 2025.

Each of the five non-compliant procurements have been reviewed by the Department, and steps are being taken to bring them into compliance with the relevant procurement rules as quickly as possible.

In line with the requirements of Circular 40-2002, these 5 contracts were declared on the Secretary Generals return to the Comptroller and Auditor General on 31 March 2026.

Non-compliant contracts for 2026 will be assessed when the Contracts Register for 2026 is compiled in early 2027.

In relation to bodies under the aegis of my Department, there are three such bodies; the Army Pensions Board, the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces and the External Oversight Body of the Defence Forces (EOB), which was placed on a statutory basis on 1 December 2024. The information the Deputy has requested in relation to these bodies is currently being compiled and will be forwarded directly to the Deputy's Office as soon as the information is available.

In line with the National AI Strategy and the Guidelines for the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Public Service, my Department, and the bodies under its aegis, are actively exploring opportunities to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support business operations and service delivery.

At present, the approved AI tools in use within my Department, and bodies under its aegis, are Microsoft Copilot Chat and an internally developed AI-powered Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) tool.

My Department's core IT infrastructure is provided by the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO) under the Build to Share Managed Desktop Shared Service. In this context, Microsoft Copilot Chat is made available to departmental staff through the shared service environment and is used in accordance with departmental policies, Government guidance and mandatory training requirements.

Accordingly, the current categories of AI use within my Department, and bodies under its aegis, include:

• Research, drafting and summarisation;

• Knowledge management and information retrieval; and

• Access to and querying of internal departmental documentation

My Department will continue to assess opportunities presented by AI technologies while ensuring that any adoption is undertaken in a secure, responsible and ethical manner and in accordance with Government policy, public service guidance and all relevant legal and regulatory requirements.

As Minister for Defence, I am committed to the ongoing work of ensuring the Defence Forces are a modern, agile and fit for purpose organisation to defend the State and meet the challenges of today and the future.

The Commission on the Defence Forces recommended in its 2022 report significant changes for the Defence Forces and Defence provision in Ireland. It covers high level Defence Forces structures, defence capabilities, organisation, culture and human resources, the Reserve Defence Force and funding.

The Commission on the Defence Forces recommended "The Chief of Defence to initiate an immediate force design process assisted by external experts with access to international military expertise, and to include a detailed force design process."

The Defence Forces have established three Force Design teams within the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps and also an overarching Strategic Force Design office. This work is continuing with all force design teams working collaboratively to develop a force design for the entire Defence Forces.

The force design work being undertaken by the Defence Forces is nearing completion, and I expect to receive a report on Force Design from the Chief of Staff for consideration in the near future.

This is complicated and challenging work which we need to get right to ensure that we design a modern force which is fit for purpose for future generations. What is important for me as Minister is that any force design process will include a transitional plan with incremental steps beyond current numbers to the 11,500 force recommended by the Commission on the Defence Forces.

As you will appreciate, this is a significant piece of work and will need a concerted effort by all involved. I have confidence that the structures that have been put in place will ensure the successful delivery of a modern, fit-for-purpose Defence Forces.

The Naval Service currently has a fleet of eight commissioned vessels. I am advised by the military authorities that there are four vessels available for operations and regularly deployed on Maritime Defence and Security Operations on a rotation basis.

The operational availability of Naval Service vessels is managed through a strategic rotation which takes account of maintenance, crew training and rest periods. This approach ensures a continuous and sustainable naval presence in Irish waters.

For operational and security reasons, it would not be appropriate to provide a monthly breakdown of specific vessel availability in the manner sought by the Deputy.

For operational and security reasons, I am unable to provide the specific number of maritime surveillance operations conducted or detail the specific deployment configurations of our assets. Disclosing the precise frequency and exact operational patterns of patrols off the coast of County Cork would compromise the effectiveness of maritime security missions and undermine the States ability to monitor and protect critical offshore and subsea infrastructure.

I can, however, provide the following general information on the Defence Forces monitoring framework and asset capabilities.

The Naval Service is the State's principal sea-going agency and is tasked with a variety of defence and other roles. The primary day-to-day tasking of the Naval Service is to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with the State's obligations as a member of the European Union. These patrols are carried out on a regular and frequent basis and are directed to all areas of Irish waters as necessary. It also carries out a number of other non-fishery related tasks including maritime surveillance, drug interdiction, search and rescue, and maritime defence and security operations (MDSO). As such any Naval Service patrol should be viewed as a multi-faceted activity.

In addition to Naval Service patrols, aerial monitoring and surveillance of the Irish EEZ is carried out by the Air Corps Maritime Patrol Squadron using C295 maritime patrol aircraft equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance and communication equipment.

The Naval Operations Command Centre, located at the Naval Base Haulbowline, is staffed twenty four hours a day seven days a week by qualified Naval Service personnel who carry out remote monitoring and surveillance of the Irish EEZ. This monitoring provides the Naval Service with a recognised maritime picture which assists in determining how each Defence Forces maritime asset should be tasked.

The Defence Forces routinely monitor vessels within the Irish EEZ, utilising both Naval Service and Air Corps assets. In addition to at-sea patrols, the Naval Operations Command Centre in Haulbowline carries out remote monitoring of the Irish EEZ on a 24/7 basis.

All vessels, both state-operated and privately operated must transit Irish waters in compliance with international law as defined by UNCLOS. Any vessels present in our EEZ may be subject to sighting and observation by the Naval Service and Air Corps, without their innocent passage being infringed.

The Deputy will appreciate that, for operational and security reasons, it would not be appropriate to disclose information regarding the monitoring and surveillance operations carried out by the Defence Forces.

My officials have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the military authorities, and I will respond to you as soon as possible.

My priority as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service is maintained and developed. This is to enable the Defence Forces to carry out the roles assigned by Government.

The capital funding of €1.7 billion allocated to Defence in the latest National Development Plan covering the period 2026 to 2030 represents an increase of €600 million on the previous baseline of €1.1 billion. The revised capital allocations will enable targeted progression on key elements of Government commitments within LOA 2 objectives.

Capital investment in Defence primarily provides for the renewal, retention and acquisition of major defence equipment and infrastructural platforms. This expenditure enhances and supports military capabilities and therefore contributes to a more secure and resilient society. As Defence capital expenditure is often atypical, with long lead-in times, the funding certainty now provided will support the internal Equipment Development Plan and Infrastructural Development Planning Frameworks.

The Naval Service currently has a fleet of eight commissioned vessels. These eight vessels consist of two P50 Class Large Patrol Vessels, four P60 Class Offshore Patrol Vessels and two P70 Inshore Patrol Vessels. Capital investment in the Naval Service Vessel Renewal and Replacement Programme is ongoing. The programme of works for the midlife refit and upgrade of the two P50 class vessels has been completed and planning has recently commenced on a similar programme for the four P60 class vessels. The two P70 class Inshore Patrol Vessels, purchased from the New Zealand Government, were commissioned into State service as LÉ Aoibhinn and LÉ Gobnait in 2024.

The Commission on the Defence Forces specifically recommended a programme of naval vessel replacement under Level of Ambition 2. This recommendation was accepted in principle by Government. As set out in the Update to the Detailed Implementation Plan for the Commission on the Defence Forces, decisions on the shape and timing of the Naval vessel replacement to ensure a balanced fleet by early in the next decade will be made and subsequently progressed from 2026 and beyond.

These decisions will be made in the context of the Capability Development Programme 2028 – 2040 which is under preparation in my Department and which will identify and cost, at a high level, the capability requirements for the Defence Forces out to 2040 across all domains of operation, including the maritime and subsea domain. I also requested the Defence Forces to prepare a regeneration report for the Naval Service to address the challenges faced in recent years and to plot a path forward for the future direction of the Naval Service.

Informed by these plans, decisions will be made on the composition of the balanced fleet of modern ships and the greater use of technologies. These decisions will also be informed by other relevant information, including the new National Maritime Security Strategy.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 286, 287, 288 and 291 together.

As Minister for Defence, I am fully committed to increasing and strengthening recruitment in the Permanent Defence Force.

The Military Authorities advise that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) stood at 7,816 personnel, consisting of 7,218 males and 598 females, on the 30 June 2026, the latest date for which this figure is available.

Last year saw a modest, though significant, growth in the overall strength of nearly 200, with a total of 790 inductions achieved, of which 720 were male and 70 were female, - the highest in twenty years - and the number of personnel who discharged was at its lowest level in more than five years. I am determined to build on this and have set a target of 850 inductions for 2026. As of 30 June 2026 there have been a total of 334 Inductions achieved, comprising of 301 males and 33 females.

The equivalent figures for 2023 and 2024, requested by the Deputy, are as follows: in 2023 there were 415 inductions of which 378 were male and 37 were female, and, in 2024 there were 708 inductions of which 668 were male and 40 were female.

Last year, a total of 583 personnel left the PDF while discharges for this year to date stands at 265.

I am pleased that there continues to be very strong interest in a career in the PDF with a total of 16,510 applications received in 2025 and over 12,000 applications received to date in 2026. The challenge now for the PDF is to convert the high level of applications to inductions. A draft Strategic Workforce Plan prepared by the Defence Forces has recently been submitted to me for consideration. As the Deputy will be aware, the aim of this process is to provide a pathway to the achievement of a strength of 11,500, inclusive of civilian personnel, commensurate with Level of Ambition 2.

Increases in application numbers and in the overall strength of the PDF demonstrate that the key enabling measures which the Government has introduced to support and drive Defence Forces recruitment and retention are yielding results.

These measures include: increases in the maximum ages of recruitment and retirement respectively; the extension of private secondary healthcare to all personnel; and the application of the provisions of the Working Time Directive across the Defence Forces subject to certain exemptions. The Patrol Duty allowance payable to Naval Service personnel at sea has been doubled after ten days at sea in a calendar year while the Naval Service tax credit has been extended for a further five years. There continues to be significant progress on pay and all personnel benefited from a pay award in June.

Opportunities for careers in the Defence Forces remain open via a diverse range of ongoing competitions including general service recruitment, re-entry schemes and multiple direct entry competitions for specialist roles.

I ensured that Budget 2026 provided a record allocation of €1.49 billion for the Defence Sector, an increase of €145 million on 2025. These funds include provision for the recruitment of a net 400 additional PDF members per annum.

Significant strides continue to be made on a number of fronts and the allocation of record levels of expenditure, coupled with the initiatives I have outlined here, is illustrative of my commitment to building on the growth in recruitment achieved in recent years.

The specific occupational pension schemes applicable to members of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) depend primarily on the date a person first joins the public service, and fall mainly into the following three categories:

• those who joined before April 2004;

• those who joined on or after 1st April 2004 and before 1st January 2013; and

• those who join on or after 1st January 2013 as members of the Single Public Service Pension Scheme (the Single Scheme).

Supplementary pension arrangements have always existed for personnel who joined the PDF prior to 2013 and continue to operate today. Those arrangements were never halted or abolished so the question of "reinstating" does not arise.

The occupational pension scheme for post-1 January 2013 new entrants to the public service, including the PDF, is governed by the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and Other Provisions) Act 2012. All first-time new entrants to pensionable public service employment (including the PDF) on, or after, that date are members of the Single Scheme.

The Single Scheme is a key structural fiscal reform introduced to help significantly reduce the cost of public service pensions in the long term, while at the same time continuing to provide valuable pension benefits for employees. In the general context of that policy objective, the terms and rules of the Single Scheme, which are fundamentally different to previous superannuation public service arrangements, make no provision for the concept or award of supplementary pensions for any new entrants joining any public service group from 1 January 2013 onwards.

Notwithstanding the distinguishing features of the Single Scheme, members of the PDF in that Scheme retain the minimum pension age of 50 to reflect operational needs, as already applies to new entrant military personnel recruited since April 2004, and the Single Scheme also retains ‘fast accrual’ pension terms for uniformed groups such as the PDF.

In the round, pension schemes applicable to members of the PDF compare very favourably to the generality of pension arrangements applicable across our public service.

Under the 2012 Act, overall statutory responsibility for the Single Scheme pension terms and rules rests with my colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Sector Reform and Digitalisation. Any amendments to the Single Scheme can only be made by consultation with, and subject to the approval of that Department, taking into the account the impacts on the wider public service pensions.

I am advised by the Defence Forces that the expenditure incurred by the Defence Forces on recruitment advertising in the past 12 months is as set out in the table below. The costs are broken down between advertising, design and consultancy fees.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 292 and 293 together.

Increasing recruitment and retention of personnel in the Defence Forces is a key priority for me as Minister for Defence. As a government, we are committed to putting the resources in place to achieve Level of Ambition 2 and a crucial element of this is personnel expansion. A range of measures have been undertaken to tackle recruitment and retention challenges in the Defence Forces over the last number of years. As a result, we have seen a stabilisation in the strength of the Permanent Defence Force in 2024 and an increase of almost 200 personnel in 2025, with a total of 790 inductions achieved- the highest in twenty years - while the number of personnel who discharged was at its lowest level in more than five years.

I am pleased that there continues to be very strong interest in a career in the Defence Forces with a total of 16,510 applications received in 2025 and over 11,800 applications received to the end June 2026. I am determined to build on the increase in the strength achieved in 2025 and have set a target of 850 inductions for 2026. The challenge now for the Defence Forces is to convert the high level of applications to inductions. A draft Strategic Workforce Plan prepared by the Defence Forces has recently been submitted to me for consideration. As the Deputy will be aware, the aim of this process is to provide a pathway to the achievement of a strength of 11,500, inclusive of civilian personnel, commensurate with Level of Ambition 2.

The Military Authorities advise that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) stood at 7,816 personnel on the 30 June 2026, the latest date for which this figure is available.

The table below provides figures for the annual number of inductions and discharges from 2021 to 30 June 2026, as requested by the Deputy.

* as at 30 June 2026

Increases in application numbers and in the overall strength of the PDF, over the last three years, demonstrate that the key enabling measures which the Government has introduced to support and drive Defence Forces recruitment and retention are yielding results. These measures include: significant progress on pay; increases in the maximum ages of recruitment and retirement respectively; the extension of private secondary healthcare to all personnel; the application of the provisions of the Working Time Directive across the Defence Forces subject to certain exemption, and increases in patrol duty allowance.

In addition, a wide ranging programme of capital investment in Defence Forces infrastructure, aimed at facilitating and enabling greater levels of recruitment and retention, continues apace. I was pleased to see first hand the significant progress being made during my visit to the Joint Induction Training Centre in Gormanston Barracks, an impressive facility which will, eventually, provide for the training of up to 900 recruits per annum. I was also proud to officially open the USAC building in Galway in February last - a 69 bed state of the art accommodation facility which was completed at a cost of €12.3 million,- and, in April, to officially open the refurbished Block 4 accommodation building in the Naval Service Base, Haulbowline, which will accommodate an additional 74 personnel following an investment of €8.8million.

Underpinning these and other measures, I ensured that Budget 2026 provided a record allocation of €1.49 billion for the Defence Sector, an increase of €145 million on 2025. These funds include provision for the recruitment of a net 400 additional PDF members per annum.

Significant strides continue to be made on a number of fronts and the allocation of record levels of expenditure, coupled with the initiatives I have outlined here, is illustrative of my commitment to building on the growth in recruitment and the stabilisation in retention achieved in recent years.

Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union provides an important opportunity for Ireland to lead and shape aspects of the European Union’s work, while also showcasing Ireland’s expertise, engagement and values. The Government has committed to delivering a successful Presidency in line with the Programme for Government.

To support the delivery of Defence-related Presidency activities, my Department has been allocated €900,000 in the 2026 Estimates. This allocation is intended to meet the estimated operational costs associated with Defence-related meetings, conferences and working groups hosted both in Ireland and through Ireland’s Permanent Representation and Military Representation in Brussels. The allocation covers expenditure relating to accommodation, transportation, formal hospitality, cultural visits, cultural performances, gifts and interpretation services.

With regard to gifts and merchandise, it is customary for modest mementos to be presented to senior-level Heads of Delegation attending meetings in the host country. The central Presidency planning team within the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade has procured Irish woollen scarves, notebooks and branded stationery for use at Presidency events and for distribution at high-level meetings.

The final overall cost of the Presidency will not be known until all events have concluded and all associated invoices have been processed. Consequently, final expenditure figures will not be available until 2027. In the meantime, every effort is being made to ensure that costs are carefully managed and monitored.

To date, my Department has successfully delivered three Presidency events:

• Defence Policy Directors Meeting;

• Protection of Critical Infrastructure CER Conference; and

• European Peace Facility Meeting.

The remaining events scheduled to take place between August and December are:

• Defence FAC, Wicklow (31 August–1 September);

• Defence Industry Working Party, Dublin (10–11 September);

• Politico Military Group, Meath (17–18 September);

• European Union Military Committee Working Group, Dublin (23–25 September);

• Cyber Commanders Conference, Dublin (6 October);

• European Union Military Committee Away Days, Dublin (14–16 October);

• Maritime and Legal Conference, Dublin (28 October);

• Industry Conference, Dublin (27 November); and

• Meeting of the Directors General of the European Crisis Centres Network, Dublin (3–4 December).

My Department will continue to work closely with colleagues across Government to ensure the successful delivery of all Defence-related Presidency events.

Since being appointed as Minister for Defence, I have received one gift. In my attendance at the Valentia Island Subsea Cable Security and Resilience Symposium, I was presented with a small piece of the original section of the underwater cable. To my knowledge, this currently does not attract a monetary value.

In line with the Standards of Public Office, I am not permitted, in my role as Minister, to accept gifts with a value exceeding €650. If offered gifts of value less than €650 I will, as required, follow the Standards of Public Office procedures.

My Department's AI Policy is designed to ensure that Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly Generative AI (GenAI) tools are used legally, ethically, securely and responsibly across the Department.

The AI Policy advises staff not to use generative AI to draft or respond to official correspondence, including Parliamentary Questions (PQs) and representations from members of the public.

In line with the National AI Strategy and the Guidelines for the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Public Service, my Department, and the bodies under its aegis, are actively exploring opportunities to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support business operations and service delivery.

At present, the approved AI tools in use within my Department, and bodies under its aegis, are Microsoft Copilot Chat and an internally developed AI-powered Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) tool.

My Department has a clear policy, in line with Circular 09/2019: Policy on the Use of Private Email and Other Private Messaging Services, that staff should not use third-party or web-based email accounts for Departmental business.

I do not use personal email accounts for official business.

I can confirm following requests to my Department officials from the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management and in line with the Strategic Framework for Emergency Management, the Irish Air Corps assisted on a daily basis with aerial firefighting to the wildfires in both Wicklow and Tipperary over recent days within its operational means and capabilities, which included operating up to the late evening when required. I am advised that officials at central and local government have indicated their satisfaction with the assistance provided.

As the information you have requested is not currently available, I have asked my officials to gather the information. I will respond to you in due course.

As Minister for Defence, I launched Ireland’s first National Maritime Security Strategy on 25 February. My vision for this strategy is that it will support the protection of a secure and sovereign Ireland, where our people and interests are protected, and where our European and international partners can rely on us to uphold the rule of law in the maritime domain. My focus is now on implementation of the strategy and the operationalisation of its accompanying action plan.

This first strategy focuses on risks and threats to Ireland’s national security and defence, including the protection of our critical maritime infrastructure, particularly critical undersea infrastructure. My reason for this focus on critical infrastructure in our maritime domain is because many major undersea cables land on our shores or transit through our EEZ carrying significant amounts of global internet traffic and financial data. In addition, our energy sector is heavily supported by subsea gas pipelines and electricity interconnectors. There are also plans advancing to develop significant offshore renewable facilities in our waters.

Protecting critical undersea infrastructure requires collaboration within the State as well as collaboration with other European states to provide a broader understanding of what is occurring in the greater maritime space. This means that Government Departments and agencies, infrastructure operators, the Defence Forces, the private sector and academia all have a part to play. Safeguarding critical undersea infrastructure requires a multifaceted approach with a wide variation of parties involved.

The Defence Forces routinely carry out monitoring and surveillance of Ireland’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) using both Naval Service assets and Air Corps maritime patrol aircraft. These patrols can vary from fishery protection duties to other non-fishery related tasks including maritime surveillance, drug interdiction, search and rescue, and maritime defence and security operations (MDSO).

In addition to at sea monitoring, the Naval Operations Command Centre in Haulbowline carries out remote monitoring twenty four hours a day, seven days a week.

In terms of enhancing capabilities, my Department is developing a Capability Development Programme, that will identify, at a high level, the capability requirements for the Defence Forces out to 2040. This programme will inform future decisions on the prioritisation and development of capabilities, including those in the maritime domain, in support of the strategic Level of Ambition 2 set out in the Defence Policy Review, the Maritime Security Strategy and the objectives outlined in the Strategic Framework and the updated Detailed Implementation Plan for the Commission on the Defence Forces. I expect this Programme to be finalised in 2026.

Once finalised, the Programme will be implemented through rolling four year Capability Development Plans, the first of which will cover the period 2028 to 2032. Capabilities will then be developed and acquired in line with available capital allocations under the National Development Plan. This structured and phased approach will guide future investment decisions, including in relation to naval vessels, equipment and enabling systems, as part of the overall development of Defence Forces capability.

One of the key ongoing projects underway that will contribute to maritime security relates to subsea domain awareness. A programme of work has been approved as part of the overall Equipment Development Plan. Investment in sonar capability is the first project within that new programme which will see the Naval Service acquire sonar capability which will be used to detect objects near cables and pipelines in Irish territorial waters and the EEZ. This new acquisition will enhance awareness below the surface, contributing to the overall maritime picture available to Naval Service and the wider Defence Forces. This is a complex project and a new capability, so work in training personnel and establishing the procedures and structures required within the Defence Forces has commenced, and will continue in the period up to the delivery in 2027.

As a matter of policy, my Department and the Defence Forces monitor technological developments and engage, where appropriate, with national and international partners, academic institutions, and industry to ensure awareness of developments that may have relevance to defence and security requirements.

However, for operational and security reasons, I cannot disclose specific details regarding the extent to which technologies, capabilities, systems, or methodologies are employed or not by the Defence Forces in operational planning, intelligence-related activities and cybersecurity operations. The disclosure of such information could reasonably be expected to prejudice the effectiveness of Defence Forces operations and the security of the State.

I can assure the Deputy that any consideration or adoption of emerging technologies by the Defence Forces is undertaken in accordance with applicable Government policy, relevant national and EU legal frameworks, information security requirements, ethical considerations, and is informed by the Defence Forces' operational needs and capability priorities.

As of 30th June 2026, Ireland is contributing 394 Defence Forces personnel to overseas peacekeeping missions and commitments. This reflects the Government's continued commitment to our responsibilities in the area of international peace and security. The main mission in which personnel are currently deployed is the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) with 320 personnel.

Ireland also contributes personnel to two other UN missions located in the Middle East, the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation (UNTSO) - where Military Observers remain in the Middle East to monitor ceasefires, supervise armistice agreements, prevent isolated incidents from escalating and assist other United Nations peacekeeping operations in the region - with 12 personnel currently deployed, and the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan in Syria, with 3 personnel deployed. Observers and staff are also deployed to various United Nations and OSCE missions, and in addition, Defence Forces personnel hold staff appointments at UN, EU, NATO (as part of Ireland's membership of Partnership for Peace) and OSCE headquarters.

Ireland has always been a strong supporter of peacekeeping and contributions to peacekeeping operations and this is expressed in Ireland's long-standing tradition of participating in UN and UN-mandated peacekeeping operations, as well as by Ireland's engagement in the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). Our peacekeepers are recognised internationally for their expertise and experience.

As the Deputy will know, on 28th August last year, the UN Security Council renewed the UNIFIL mandate up to 31st December 2026, to be followed by a period of drawdown and withdrawal, scheduled to be completed by the end of 2027. This will have the most significant impact on the numbers of the Defence Forces serving overseas over the next 18 months.

The following table sets out the number and location of personnel deployed to overseas peacekeeping missions and commitments as of 30 June last (the most recent figures available):