What they're asking about 266 questions asked · 18 departments

• Housing 91 questions

  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage for a detailed breakdown of the enhanced defective concrete blocks grant scheme, which commenced in July 2023 under the Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks Act 2022; the number of homeowners in County Mayo that have received a formal remediation option determination from the Housing Agency or the relevant local authority, categorised by options 1, 2, 3 and 4; and any blended options, including the dates of those determinations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22206/26]
  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of the determinations under the defective concrete blocks scheme that were made under the enhanced scheme, and from the previous scheme, for Mayo homeowners, with a breakdown by options 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 and any blended options, including the corresponding dates of determination and issuance of grant approval; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22207/26]
  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the criteria or methodology used to prioritise the order in which appeals are processed regarding the defective concrete blocks scheme; and the reason there appears to be significant variation in processing times, such that some appeals submitted six, nine or more months after others, have been determined, while earlier appeals may still be pending; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22208/26]
  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the steps being taken to ensure consistency, transparency and fairness in the processing of appeals; and whether his Department intends to publish processing timelines or a standard framework for appeals to provide homeowners with clarity on expected waiting periods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22209/26]
  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his attention has been drawn to cases where homeowners are excluded from the enhanced defective concrete blocks grant scheme due to the absence of a certificate of completion prior to 2021, despite the fact that construction of the dwelling was halted due the discovery of defective concrete, rather than any act of abandonment by the owner; if he accepts that it is unreasonable to require homeowners to complete a dwelling known to be fundamentally defective in order to qualify for the scheme; if consideration will be given to such exceptional circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22218/26]
  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to outline whether any legislative amendments or administrative measures are currently being considered to address situations where homeowners are effectively excluded from the enhanced defective concrete blocks grant scheme due to technical compliance issues, despite clear evidence that works ceased due to defective materials; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22219/26]
  • 2026-03-18 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of applications under the original defective concrete blocks grant scheme that reached the maximum grant payable under that scheme; the number of such cases in each local authority area administering the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19637/26]
  • 2026-03-18 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether homeowners under the defective concrete blocks grant scheme are provided with the engineer’s final report relating to their dwelling before being asked to indicate whether they wish to avail of a technical review following an assessment by the Housing Agency under I.S. 465; whether electing to avail of a technical review delays or prevents the issuance of the Remediation Option Grant approval to the relevant local authority; whether, in practice, homeowners may be required to decide whether to seek a technical review before being entitled with the full technical report on which the remediation decision relating to their dwelling is based; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19761/26]
  • 2026-03-18 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the reason correspondence issued by the Housing Agency to homeowners under the defective concrete blocks grant scheme, following completion of an assessment under I.S. 465:2018, asks homeowners to indicate whether they wish to avail of a technical review or allow the Remediation Option Grant approval to issue to the relevant local authority but does not reference the statutory right of appeal provided for under the Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks Act 2022; whether he considers it consistent with principles of procedural fairness and natural justice that homeowners could be asked to decide whether to challenge a remediation decision affecting their dwelling without first being furnished with the full technical report underpinning that decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19762/26]
  • 2026-03-18 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the Housing Agency uses a standard template for correspondence under the defective concrete blocks grant scheme, specifically the wording asking homeowners to ‘please reply… with your instructions of how you wish to proceed’ after a technical assessment; if a template exists, to provide a copy; if not, the basis on which individual correspondence is drafted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19763/26]
  • 2026-03-18 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the position regarding the ongoing review of I.S. 465, the Irish standard used for the assessment and remediation of dwellings affected by defective concrete; the current status of this review; whether any interim findings or updates will be made publicly available; the estimated timeframe for the completion and publication of the revised standard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20099/26]
  • 2026-02-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether he has obtained legal advice to support the position that complaints concerning the administration, delay, procedures, resourcing or transparency of the Defective Concrete Blocks Appeals Panel fall outside the remit of the Office of the Ombudsman by virtue of the panel being described as independent; if so, the legal basis for that position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14321/26]
  • 2026-02-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether it is the position of his Department that homeowners affected by defective concrete blocks have no external or independent complaints or oversight mechanism available to them in respect of delay, maladministration or procedural unfairness in the appeals process; if so, the way in which this position is compatible with principles of good administration and access to remedy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14322/26]
  • 2026-02-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the role of his Department in determining or influencing the operation of the Defective Concrete Blocks Appeals Panel, including its terms of reference, appointment process, funding, staffing levels, procedures and timelines; whether, in view of this role, he accepts that the administration and operation of the panel must remain subject to normal public accountability standards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14323/26]
  • 2026-02-10 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to confirm the origin of guidance issued by the Housing Agency stating that homeowners cannot avail of a full technical review following the revision of the I.S. 465 following an appeal and adjudication by the Appeals Panel; whether this guidance was issued at the direction of, or with the approval of, his Department; and whether he is satisfied that this guidance accurately reflects the law, particularly in cases where an appeal decision has been annulled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10181/26]
  • 2026-02-10 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the reason guidance regarding access to technical reviews was issued only to homeowners whose remediation options were downgraded after 6 November 2024; whether different rules apply to homeowners depending on the date of downgrade; and how this approach is consistent with principles of fairness and equal treatment under the defective concrete blocks scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10182/26]
  • 2026-01-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the role local authorities will have in conducting or contributing to technical reviews of applications under the Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme; to specify the nature of that role; the expertise to be applied; whether local authorities will be acting independently or on behalf of the Housing Agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5571/26]
  • 2026-01-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the way in which independence will be ensured in the technical review process for homeowners dissatisfied with determinations under the Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme, particularly where a review may be carried out by the same body, or an associated body, involved in the original determination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5572/26]
  • 2026-01-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to outline the difference in function, authority and outcome between the statutory independent appeals process, and the proposed technical review process; to confirm whether a technical review constitutes a new determination, a re-assessment, or an advisory exercise only; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5573/26]
  • 2026-01-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether details of the technical review process, including who conducts it, governance arrangements, and decision-making criteria, will be published in advance of homeowners being invited to participate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5574/26]
  • 2026-01-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the anticipated completion date for the review of IS,465; the expected timeline for the commencement of the technical review application process following its completion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5575/26]
  • 2026-01-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to clarify, in respect of the defective concrete blocks grant scheme, whether the 78-week timeframe applicable to the determination of appeals continues to run where an appeal is paused or cannot be progressed pending the completion of a technical review arising from the ongoing revision of I.S. 465; if he will further clarify whether time spent awaiting such a technical review is treated as excluded from, or counted towards, the 78-week period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5799/26]
  • 2026-01-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether, under the defective concrete blocks grant scheme, the way in which the statutory 78-week timeframe for appeals is suspended where an appeal cannot be determined pending a technical review linked to the revision of I.S. 465; whether this position has been communicated to the housing agency and local authorities; and if no such amendment has been made, to outline how appeals that cannot be progressed pending such a technical review are treated for the purposes of statutory time limits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5800/26]
  • 2026-01-22 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the current status of the amendment Bill relating to the defective concrete blocks grant scheme; to clarify when the Amendment Bill is expected to be enacted; the way in which the amended scheme will be administered; the role of local authorities; whether any interim administrative arrangements are being considered pending its commencement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5255/26]
  • 2026-01-21 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the reason the rates per square metre under the defective concrete blocks grant scheme have not been reviewed since the introduction of the enhanced scheme in 2023, despite significant construction cost inflation; if he will commit to an immediate review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4664/26]
  • 2026-01-14 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the tendering and procurement process currently in place for the appointment of building professionals to carry out building condition assessments under the enhanced defective concrete blocks grant scheme; the way in which tenders are invited, evaluated and awarded; the criteria used in assessing submissions; to provide a list of the successful tenderers appointed to carry out such assessments in County Donegal; the number of assessments allocated to each appointed tenderer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2557/26]
  • 2026-01-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the proposed apartment, duplex and multi-unit dwelling remediation scheme will provide for the remediation of all multi-unit developments impacted by defective concrete; the anticipated timeline for enactment of the legislation and commencement of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1556/26]
  • 2026-01-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the current status of the consideration of letters of recommendation submitted by local authorities in regard to the enhanced defective concrete blocks grant scheme; to confirm when such letters of recommendation submitted by Meath County Council and Wexford County Council will be processed; whether a submission from Louth County Council is currently under consideration or expected shortly; the expected timeline for decisions or determinations in respect of each county where letters of recommendation have been submitted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2185/26]
  • 2025-12-16 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will urgently examine the situation facing community childcare in County Donegal, many community-based early-years services are severely affected by defective concrete; the specific supports available or that will be made available, to early-years and childcare facilities whose buildings have been structurally compromised; and if he will ensure that such services are explicitly considered within forthcoming policy or legislative measures aimed at addressing affected community facilities, given the critical role they play in communities. [71626/25]
  • 2025-12-09 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage for a list of group water schemes transferred to Uisce Éireann in County Donegal including name, transfer date, public money invested in each scheme prior to transfer; and to confirm the State cost to bring those schemes to compliance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [69054/25]
  • 2025-12-09 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will address an emerging issue affecting landlords who own dwellings approved under the defective concrete blocks scheme; if he will confirm whether such landlords will be able to issue a notice of termination to facilitate essential demolition and rebuild works after the new residential tenancies legislation comes into effect in March 2026; and if not, the steps he intends to take to ensure that owners of defective properties are not prevented from carrying out required remediation works due to the operation of the new six-year tenancy rule; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [69751/25]
  • 2025-12-09 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the total capital and operational payments made by the State to Uisce Éireann, broken down by year. [70005/25]
  • 2025-11-25 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the status of the proposed acquisition of 17 housing units in Milford, County Donegal, currently being progressed by an organisation (details supplied) under the CALF scheme; the reasons for the apparent delay in Donegal County Council completing the required local authority section of the CALF application; whether his Department has received engagement from the council on this matter; the steps being taken to resolve the situation to ensure these urgently needed homes will be delivered for local social housing applicants; if these properties have been tested for the presence of deleterious materials; if any such testing has been requested or received by his Department or the local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65203/25]
  • 2025-11-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide an update on the asbestos abatement works at the Tailte Éireann facility in Santry; if the abatement process has commenced or been put out to tender (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62348/25]
  • 2025-11-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the amount of income Donegal receives as a top-up from central government each year since 2013, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62889/25]
  • 2025-11-06 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide an update on the review of costings (details supplied) that underpin the enhanced defective concrete blocks grant scheme; if he accepts that these costings are now significantly out of date given current construction inflation and market conditions; and if he will confirm when the long-overdue re-evaluation of these costings will be completed and published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60604/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to confirm whether the homeowner liaison officer appointed under the defective concrete blocks scheme has ever met with affected homeowners in a formal consultative structure, either in person or virtually; if not, the reason such engagement has not taken place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57747/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide details of any formal mechanisms, structures, or processes in place for affected homeowners to provide input, feedback, or recommendations to his Department or the defective concrete blocks implementation steering group; if none exist, the reason homeowners are excluded from these decision-making processes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57748/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide copies of all emails, meeting notes, correspondence, or briefing documents generated by or submitted to the homeowner liaison officer regarding interactions with affected homeowners since the Officer's appointment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57749/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the means by which his Department ensures accountability and transparency in the operation of the defective concrete blocks scheme, given that the homeowner liaison officer has not formally engaged with homeowners in any structured meetings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57750/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide the official terms of reference, remit, and reporting lines for the homeowner liaison officer; to confirm whether the officer has any authority to influence decision-making, escalate issues, or ensure that homeowners' concerns are addressed in the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57751/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to clarify whether the homeowner liaison officer participates in the defective concrete blocks implementation steering group or any of its sub-groups; whether the officer is empowered to represent the views of homeowners in these forums; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57752/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether his Department intends to publish the activities, meetings, or outputs of the homeowner liaison officer; whether a regular report on engagement with homeowners will be made publicly available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57753/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide the dates, locations and attendance of all formal meetings of the statutory appeals panel under the defective concrete blocks scheme since its constitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57754/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether the appeals panel has submitted any formal reports, recommendations or advice to the Department or Minister since its constitution; if so, to provide summaries or copies of such reports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57755/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide the evidence, including reports, submissions, correspondence, or consultation records, on which his Department relies to assert that the defective concrete blocks grant scheme was designed to reflect the preferences of affected homeowners regarding remediation options; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57756/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage given that the structural risks associated with defective concrete, including pyrrhotite and sulphate attack, are already scientifically established, the reason his Department has not suspended partial remediation and implemented immediate, full, State-managed remediation to protect homeowners from ongoing structural, financial and health harm; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57757/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to set out the legal and policy basis on which his Department considers it reasonable and proportionate to allow homeowners to remain in dwellings subject to partial remediation, exposed to known structural risk, progressive property deterioration, and significant financial burden, pending a revision of I.S. 465 and the option of a technical review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57758/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the steps his Department is taking to protect the physical safety and health of homeowners currently living in unsafe properties subject to partial remediation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57759/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the measures being taken to mitigate the severe mental and psychological harm caused by prolonged uncertainty and limbo caused by waiting for reviews, as documented in research such as "An Earthquake in Slow Motion"; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57760/25]
  • …and 41 more questions on Housing
• Health 54 questions

  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the average waiting time for a first appointment to see a speech and language therapist at Letterkenny Primary Care Centre; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21993/26]
  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE intensive care nurses based at Letterkenny University Hospital as of 3 February 2026; if this number will be further increased this year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21994/26]
  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE psychologists based at Donegal Town Primary Care Centre as of 18 February 2026, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21996/26]
  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE occupational therapists based at Newtowncunningham Primary Care Centre as of 18 February 2026, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21997/26]
  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE speech and language therapists based at Buncrana Primary Care Centre as of 18 February 2026, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21998/26]
  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE paediatric physiotherapists based at Letterkenny Primary Care Centre as of 18 February 2026, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21999/26]
  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE public health nurses based at Ballyshannon primary care centre as of 18 February 2026, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22000/26]
  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE dietitians based at Glenties primary care centre as of 18 February 2026, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22001/26]
  • 2026-03-18 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of counselling and psychotherapy sessions available through a programme (details supplied) in 2026 for individuals impacted by defective concrete; the number of appointments allocated nationally and per county; the number of individuals who can avail of the service in each participating county; whether the service is available online or via in person consultation; and whether there are plans to establish a permanent in-person clinic in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20513/26]
  • 2026-03-18 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health whether there are any bespoke services available through Children's Health Ireland (CHI) specifically for children suffering from respiratory conditions linked to defective concrete homes, specifically if there are dedicated respiratory clinics, asthma services, or multidisciplinary supports for children living in these defective homes; if she will confirm the absence of such services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20515/26]
  • 2026-03-05 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health whether she will commission a study on the health impacts of prolonged exposure to mould and damp in homes impacted by defective concrete; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18050/26]
  • 2026-03-05 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health whether a chairperson has been assigned to the cannabis access review panel; if so, whether the Minister could advise the person chosen; if not, when will this position be filled so that work on the review can be commenced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18163/26]
  • 2026-02-26 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the total number of beds which are currently closed in all community hospitals in Donegal, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15672/26]
  • 2026-02-26 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of additional staff, including nurses, care assistants and other staff are needed in each community hospital, in order to safely staff all currently closed beds in these community hospitals in Donegal, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15673/26]
  • 2026-01-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of patients on the waiting list for partial knee replacement surgery at Letterkenny University Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [74908/25]
  • 2026-01-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the percentage of children who received developmental checks carried out within 72 hours, at three months old, at six months old, at one year old, at two years old and at four years old, in Donegal in the years of 2022 to 2025 inclusive, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [74918/25]
  • 2026-01-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE consultant anaesthesiologists posts that were filled at Letterkenny University Hospital in the years of 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [74919/25]
  • 2025-11-12 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE physiotherapists by grade based in primary care system within Donegal in the years of 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; the average waiting time for a first appointment with a physiotherapist within primary care service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61808/25]
  • 2025-11-12 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the locations within CHO1 where HSE podiatry services are located; the number of WTE staff, by job title working in each of the HSE podiatry clinics; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61809/25]
  • 2025-10-22 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health if she will sanction the appointment of a WTE consultant paediatric endocrinologist into Letterkenny University Hospital (LUH) which has been listed by Government and HSE guidelines as a critical resource needed since 2015, and has been included in LUH estimates for 2025, (but still not sanctioned), to fully support children with type 1 diabetes and their families living in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57491/25]
  • 2025-10-21 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health if funding has been allocated in Budget 2026 or through the HSE Capital Plan for the Radharc na Sléibhte supervised residential unit (SRU) in Carndonagh, County Donegal; the status of the capital funding application previously referenced by the HSE to transition the facility into a recovery-focused crisis and step-down unit; if any portion of the €15 million national allocation for crisis supports and suicide prevention, or the 300 additional whole-time equivalent mental health posts announced under Budget 2026, will be assigned to Donegal or the Inishowen area; the plans to retain or enhance the existing SRU service model in Carndonagh to ensure continuity of care for local residents, given the essential mental health role this facility provides in a rural region with limited service access; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56840/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the current up-to-date position regarding a centre of excellence for diabetes care at Letterkenny University Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53618/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of ambulances which are available on a 24-7 basis at each ambulance station within Donegal in 2024 and to date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53619/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health if a decision has been reached regarding the healthcare investment framework for the supervised residential unit at a location (details supplied). [53673/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of full-time permanent job offers that Letterkenny University Hospital made to newly graduated physiotherapists to work in the hospital in 2025; and the number of persons that accepted these offers, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53680/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of full-time permanent job offers that Letterkenny University Hospital made to newly graduated radiographers to work in the hospital in 2025; of the number of jobs offered, the number of persons that accepted the offer, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53681/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the current emergency out of hours mental health services that are currently available in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53692/25]
  • 2025-07-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the addiction services currently available in County Donegal for young people and children aged under 18; the number of patients served; the current waiting list for these services; the services they provide; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39652/25]
  • 2025-07-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE dentists based at Letterkenny primary care centre in the years of 2023, 2024 and to date in 2025, by grade, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39653/25]
  • 2025-07-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE physiotherapist by grade based at Bundoran health centre in 2023, 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39654/25]
  • 2025-07-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the locations within CHO1 where HSE funded audiologists are based in 2023, 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39655/25]
  • 2025-07-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE consultant orthopaedic surgeons and orthopaedic registrars based at Letterkenny University Hospital in 2023,2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39656/25]
  • 2025-07-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health if the HSE plans to establish a minor injuries clinic in Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39661/25]
  • 2025-07-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE consultant in orthopaedic surgeons and orthopaedic registrar's based at Letterkenny University Hospital in the years of 2023, 2024 and to date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39662/25]
  • 2025-06-26 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the process she is currently undertaking in choosing a location for a surgical hub for the north west, as outlined in the programme for Government; the factors that will be considered in choosing the location; if this decision will be based solely on geography, population, demographics, day case numbers and staffing numbers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35141/25]
  • 2025-06-10 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health if she will provide data on the prescribing of mental health medications in County Donegal, over the past ten years; if she will provide a breakdown, by medication type and age profile; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28981/25]
  • 2025-06-10 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE speech and language therapists based at primary care centres within CHO1 in the years of 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29151/25]
  • 2025-06-10 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of dentists working in the school dental scheme within Donegal in 2023, 2024 and to date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29154/25]
  • 2025-06-10 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of closed beds in Killybegs Community Hospital (details supplied) due to staff shortages; the steps being taken to have enough staff in place to open these beds; when the 13 beds will re-open in order for the hospital to return to full patient capacity; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30305/25]
  • 2025-05-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the extent to which the health system continues to operate on paper records rather than digital records; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25043/25]
  • 2025-04-09 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health her plans to provide a specialist lymphedema clinic in Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17681/25]
  • 2025-04-09 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health if she will provide an update on the hepatitis C home testing kits; the number of kits that have been dispatched; if this scheme is proving successful; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17693/25]
  • 2025-04-09 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE consultant geriatricians attached to the Donegal integrated care programme for older persons in the years of 2023, 2024 and to date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17694/25]
  • 2025-04-09 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the rate of theatre utilisation in Letterkenny University Hospital for 2024; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17701/25]
  • 2025-04-09 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health the number of WTE consultant psychiatrists and clinical psychologists based in Donegal CAMHS services in 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17702/25]
  • 2025-04-01 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health when new patients will be accepted to a community hospital in Donegal, which is being delayed by HIQA; and if she will contact HIQA and request it to finalise the paperwork necessary (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15100/25]
  • 2025-03-19 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health if funding and recruitment is approved or currently advertised for all the 11 vacant occupational therapy posts in Donegal (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12606/25]
  • 2025-03-19 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health when the three vacancies currently in social care in Donegal will be considered for funding and advertised (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12607/25]
  • 2025-03-19 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health which of the eight vacancies currently in primary care in Donegal which were vacant as of December 2023, will be considered for funding going forward (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12608/25]
  • 2025-03-19 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Health which of the eight vacancies specifically in primary care service in Donegal which have been vacant as of December 2023, will not be considered for funding going forward (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12609/25]
  • …and 4 more questions on Health
• Children 15 questions

  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of CDNTs that have at least three WTE Dietitians allocated to them, in tabular form;; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21989/26]
  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of WTE behaviour therapist posts filled at Donegal South West Children's Disability Network Team as of 30 January 2026, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21990/26]
  • 2025-11-12 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality her Department’s future plans for a home (details supplied) in County Donegal; when the new accommodation will be ready; when is it expected that residents will be moved out of their current temporary accommodation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61341/25]
  • 2025-11-12 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of WTE administrative posts by grade that have been filled in each Children's Disability Network Team in Donegal in 2023 to 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61814/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the current vacancies by job title within Community Neuro-Rehabilitation Team based in Donegal; the timeframe for filling each of those vacancies, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53627/25]
  • 2025-09-30 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the immediate actions being taken to address the understaffing and funding issues within Tusla; the means by which she plans to address the understaffing in the north west, specifically regarding caseloads of children in foster care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51503/25]
  • 2025-07-29 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the CDNTs within CHO1 that currently have vacant psychologist posts; the estimated timeframe for filling each of those vacancies, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41853/25]
  • 2025-07-29 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of WTE dietitians, by grade based at Donegal east children's disability network team in and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41854/25]
  • 2025-07-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of WTE social care workers based at Inishowen children's disability network team in 2023, 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39660/25]
  • 2025-07-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the number of WTE administrative staff by job title working in each CDNT based within Donegal in 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39667/25]
  • 2025-06-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the potential total cost of increasing the foster care allowance by the equivalent of the current rates of the back-to-school clothing and footwear allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33917/25]
  • 2025-05-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality the measures she will take to ensure assessments of needs are completed within the statutory timeline to reduce the waiting lists across the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25044/25]
  • 2025-02-26 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the number of respite beds available to disability services in Donegal in 2023, 2024 and to date in 2025; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8190/25]
  • 2025-02-25 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the funding provided for residential respite for children's disability services within CHO1 in the years of 2023, 2024 and 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8182/25]
  • 2025-02-25 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the number of WTE speech and language therapists attached to Inishowen children's disability network team in 2023, 2024 and to date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8189/25]
• Transport 15 questions

  • 2025-12-02 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport when active travel applications will be open for the 2026 Safe Routes to School Programme, for schools and local authorities to apply for such funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67957/25]
  • 2025-11-25 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport the amount of motor tax revenue collected from motorists with cars registered in Donegal, each year from 2019 to 2024, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [65505/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport the number of WTE qualified structural engineers employed by Transport Infrastructure Ireland in the years of 2023, 2024 and to date in 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53621/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport the number of clubs within Donegal that have been included in the scope of all-island sports club EV charging project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53622/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide a 2024 end-of-year report on the Connecting Ireland plan for County Donegal; the funding that was allocated and spent; the services that have been delivered; the funding that was allocated in 2025; the services that will be delivered in 2025 in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53683/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport the number of HGVs, coaches and buses that were inspected by the Road Safety Authority in 2024, and for the first seven months of 2025; the number of those vehicles inspected that were found to have major or dangerous defects in 2024, and for the first seven months of 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53684/25]
  • 2025-09-30 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport whether he intends to develop or reinstate railway services in Donegal; whether any progress has been made in the north west since the publication of the all-island strategic rail review last year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52139/25]
  • 2025-07-29 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport the nature of refurbishment works that were carried out at Letterkenny bus station in 2023, 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41852/25]
  • 2025-04-08 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport if he has considered basing the Barnesmore Gap Greenway in the Finn Harps carpark; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17012/25]
  • 2025-03-19 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport whether he would consider introducing free public transport to people under the age of 18; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11287/25]
  • 2025-02-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport whether Rescue 118 will maintain its 24-hour coverage once transferred to a company (details supplied), or whether it will be reduced to a 12-hour service as seen in Shannon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8880/25]
  • 2025-02-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport the reason the transition of search-and-rescue services from one company (details supplied) to another has not been communicated to crews and communities; whether crews and communities will be informed in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8881/25]
  • 2025-02-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport what contingency plans are in place to ensure uninterrupted search-and-rescue (SAR) coverage, particularly for islands and rural coastal areas, while the transition of SAR services from one company to another (details supplied) takes place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8882/25]
  • 2025-02-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport whether his contract with a company (details supplied) regarding search-and-rescue (SAR) services will meet the contract’s original commitment of all-weather, 24-hour SAR coverage, 365 days a year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8883/25]
  • 2025-02-11 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the proposed extension to the Letterkenny town bus service; the anticipated timeline for implementation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4148/25]
• Public Expenditure 13 questions

  • 2026-04-14 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation for an update on his meeting with the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration in relation to the repairs and re-opening of the Donegal town Courthouse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25667/26]
  • 2025-12-11 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation to provide an update on the situation of defective homes built on a flood plain at Elm Park, Buncrana; the predicted cost of installing flood defences to Elm Park; whether he will consider relocating the residents of Elm Park; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [71122/25]
  • 2025-11-12 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the nature of refurbishment works that the OPW carried out at Letterkenny Garda Station in 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61804/25]
  • 2025-11-12 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the nature of refurbishment works that the OPW carried out at Ballyshannon Garda Station in 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61805/25]
  • 2025-11-12 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the nature of refurbishment works that the OPW carried out at Milford Garda Station in 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61806/25]
  • 2025-11-12 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the nature of refurbishment works that the OPW carried out at Buncrana Garda Station in 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61807/25]
  • 2025-11-06 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the status of defective homes built on a flood plain at a location (details supplied); the predicted cost of installing flood defences; whether he will consider relocating the residents of the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60546/25]
  • 2025-07-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the nature of refurbishments that OPW carried out at Donegal Castle in 2023, 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39658/25]
  • 2025-07-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the number of WTE staff, by job title working in Donegal Castle; the number of vacancies by job title currently at Donegal Castle; the estimated timeframe for filling each of those vacancies, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39663/25]
  • 2025-05-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if the OPW has made him aware of consistent and severe flooding in an area of Raphoe (details supplied); if there are plans for flood relief works in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24083/25]
  • 2025-02-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform the way the OPW ensures that buildings they are responsible for are using blocks that are free from deleterious materials in construction projects in County Donegal; if they have checked existing buildings for the presence of same. [6116/25]
  • 2025-02-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if the he will engage with the Department of Housing, the OPW and Donegal County Council to explore a viable alternative solution for affected homeowners in Elm Park, Buncrana, including the option of providing grant funding for the purchase of alternative homes rather than rebuilding on an unsuitable site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5217/25]
  • 2025-02-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if urgent consideration will be given by the OPW to addressing the flooding situation in Elm Park, Buncrana, where nine properties were built on a floodplain and have been severely impacted by both defective concrete and previous flooding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5218/25]
• Education 13 questions

  • 2026-02-05 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Education and Youth if a school bus issue can be examined (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8865/26]
  • 2025-11-25 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of additional special needs assistants employed over the years 2020 to 2025, by county, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [65609/25]
  • 2025-11-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Education and Youth the reason a school (details supplied) which has four children with additional needs including autism who started in September 2025 will not be given any additional SNA support this year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [62312/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Education and Youth the reason a child with autism (details supplied) will not be given an SNA this year, nor will three other children in the same class with additional needs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [58429/25]
  • 2025-10-21 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Education and Youth the current status of the emergency funding application submitted by a school (details supplied), regarding structural issues arising from defective concrete; if her Department has completed or commenced an assessment of the extent of the defects; the interim measures being put in place to ensure the safety of pupils and staff; and if she will outline the expected timelines for decision, approval, and commencement of any approved works. [56601/25]
  • 2025-10-14 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Education and Youth when a child with autism (details supplied) will obtain an urgent NEPS report;; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [55093/25]
  • 2025-06-10 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Education and Youth when a new modular classroom which has been approved by her Department, will be in place for a Donegal school (details supplied). [30304/25]
  • 2025-04-01 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Education if she will make changes to the school transport rules which will allow students doing a PLC course in their local secondary school to access school transport (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15099/25]
  • 2025-03-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Education how SNAs who work in Donegal can register for the Donegal Education Centre AGM (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14787/25]
  • 2025-03-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Education how retired teachers who previously worked as teachers in Donegal can register for the Donegal Education Centre AGM (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14788/25]
  • 2025-03-19 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Education if Post Graduate Certificate in Education graduates from the UK are eligible to register as a newly qualified teacher in Ireland; when changes to the eligibility criteria in relation to this took place; if she intends on making changes to the eligibility criteria in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11276/25]
  • 2025-02-26 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Education if a new recruitment campaign for Irish sign language specialist classroom support will be launched in quarter 2 2025; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8205/25]
  • 2025-02-26 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Education the number of WTE educational welfare officers based in Donegal in 2023, 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8208/25]
• Justice 11 questions

  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the estimated full year costs if 1,200 new Gardaí were recruited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21991/26]
  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of Gardaí within Donegal Division that have been trained in Public Order Commander Course in the years of 2024 and 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21992/26]
  • 2026-01-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of Gardaí, by rank attached to Donegal Divisional Drugs Unit as of 8 December 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [74922/25]
  • 2025-12-02 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the status of a citizenship application of a person (details supplied) who has been waiting for a response for almost a year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67859/25]
  • 2025-11-12 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of Gardaí by rank attached to Donegal Divisional Protective Services Bureau as of 5 November 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61811/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he has spoken formally with the President of Interpol since his appointment as Minister; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53626/25]
  • 2025-07-01 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the status of the court building in Carndonagh, which has been closed for renovation; if it is intended to be reopened as a court venue; if not, if consideration will be given to making the building available for alternative community use; if arrangements can be made to ensure that people are no longer summonsed to Carndonagh when hearings must take place in Buncrana. [35605/25]
  • 2025-06-10 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of Gardaí, by rank, attached to the Donegal roads policing unit as of 20 May 2025; if he will provide the corresponding figures as of 30 June 2022, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29138/25]
  • 2025-06-10 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of juvenile liaison officers within the Donegal Garda division as of 20 May 2025; if he will provide the corresponding figures as of 30 June 2022, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29139/25]
  • 2025-05-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Justice when he will publish the review of the family reunification process that his Department recently undertook; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25027/25]
  • 2025-03-19 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Justice the status and timelines of the exceptionality phase of the redress scheme for survivors of the Stardust tragedy, as committed to by the Department of the Taoiseach in 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11551/25]
• Rural 11 questions

  • 2025-12-17 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht for an update on an application (details supplied) for the town and village renewal scheme for 2025; when his Department will announce the successful applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72593/25]
  • 2025-09-08 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if additional funding has been allocated for the local improvement scheme in Donegal in 2025; the number of outstanding local improvement scheme roads in Donegal; if he will review the local improvement scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46580/25]
  • 2025-09-08 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht if he will re-establish the Scéim na mBóithre Áise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46583/25]
  • 2025-05-08 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if he will make additional funding available in 2025 for additional roads in Donegal to be resurfaced on the local improvement scheme (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23091/25]
  • 2025-05-08 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if he will provide a list of the number of roads in each municipal district in Donegal waiting for the local improvement scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23092/25]
  • 2025-05-08 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if he will provide a list of all funding for Donegal to spend on the local improvement scheme in each municipal district in Donegal over the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23093/25]
  • 2025-04-09 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of each individual project approved under the town and village renewal scheme in County Donegal in 2024; the grant approved for each project, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17703/25]
  • 2025-04-09 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of each individual project approved under measures 1, 2 and 3 of the outdoor recreation infrastructure scheme in Donegal in 2024; the grant approved for each project; the current status of each project; the completion date for each project, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17704/25]
  • 2025-03-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the number of applications for the local improvement scheme in Donegal since 2020; the number of outstanding local improvement scheme roads in Donegal; if he will allocate a major increase in local improvement scheme funding for the Glenties and Inishowen municipal districts given the demand; whether he will review the local improvement scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14862/25]
  • 2025-02-26 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of each project approved under measures 1, 2 and 3 of the outdoor recreation infrastructure scheme in Donegal, in 2024; the grant approved for each project; the current status of each project; the completion date for each project, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8193/25]
  • 2025-02-26 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of each individual project approved under the town and village renewal scheme in Donegal, in 2024; the grant approved for each project, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8195/25]
• Finance 8 questions

  • 2026-04-14 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he or his Department have engaged with any stakeholder groups from sectors (details supplied) including representatives from currently examining issues related to the insurance and mortgageability of homes affected by defective concrete and other building defects; if he will provide details of such engagements, including meeting dates, attendees, and any documentation, proposals, or recommendations shared with his Department or agencies such as the Central Bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24129/26]
  • 2026-04-14 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if lenders or insurers are considering introducing a structural risk classification system for residential properties, including a rating scale to assess structural condition and lending or insurance risk; if he has engaged with financial institutions or insurers regarding this potential system and its implications for mortgage access, insurance cover and property values; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24130/26]
  • 2025-11-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Finance the amount of income collected in Donegal through the local property tax each year since it was introduced in 2013, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62346/25]
  • 2025-11-05 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Finance if he will clarify the operation of the local property tax exemption for homeowners whose properties are affected by defective concrete; if there is a time limit attached to this exemption; if so, the rationale for imposing a time limit in cases where the property remains defective, has not been remediated and therefore has little or no market value, or in some cases a negative value; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60231/25]
  • 2025-11-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Finance the ‘market value’ homeowners affected by defective concrete blocks are expected to declare for local property tax purposes, given that many of these homes are structurally unsound, unmortgageable, and effectively unsellable in some cases having a negative market value due to the cost of demolition and reconstruction far exceeding any residual land value; and the specific guidance the Revenue Commissioners have issued to such homeowners to ensure they are not unfairly taxed on properties that have, in economic terms, no marketable value; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57985/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide the vehicle registration tax enforcement statistics for May, June and July 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53685/25]
  • 2025-06-10 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Finance the duty allowance permitted for airlines staff regarding bringing in cigarettes, tobacco products and alcohol products when arriving into the State from both EU Member States and non-EU countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29140/25]
  • 2025-02-25 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Finance if he will amend the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, to exempt emergency response drivers from benefit-in-kind in cases where such drivers take their vehicles home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7426/25]
• Agriculture 8 questions

  • 2026-01-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of WTE Forestry Inspector Grade 1 and Forestry Inspector Grade 2 posts that were filled within his Department as of 5 December 2025; if he will provide same figures as of 1 December 2022, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [74920/25]
  • 2026-01-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the WTE staff by job title posts that are currently filled at the regional veterinary office based in Raphoe, County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [74921/25]
  • 2026-01-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine whether he will expedite the ban on surgical artificial insemination in greyhounds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [74959/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when works on a new passenger embarkation pontoon at Killybegs Fisheries Harbour Centre will be fully completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53624/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when works on a new smooth point phase three at Killybegs Fisheries Harbour Centre will be fully completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53625/25]
  • 2025-06-10 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of WTE staff, by job title currently at the regional veterinary offices based at Raphoe, County Donegal; the WTE vacancies at the office, by job title; the expected timeframe for filling each of those vacancies, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29150/25]
  • 2025-04-09 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when works on the new Smooth Point Phase 3 at Killybegs Fisheries Harbour Centre will commence; the estimated timeframe for this work to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17716/25]
  • 2025-04-09 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when works on the new passenger embarkation pontoon at Killybegs Fisheries Harbour Centre will commence; the estimated timeframe for this work to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17717/25]
• Enterprise 6 questions

  • 2026-03-18 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether employment permit applicants in the manufacturing sector are covered by a sectoral employment order; whether applicants in the manufacturing sector are subjected to the same rates of pay and obligations as applicants in the construction sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18740/26]
  • 2026-01-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the number of WTE qualified legal advisors working within his Department in 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [74923/25]
  • 2025-11-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether he plans to review the employment permits process, with a view to making the process faster; whether his Department has considered streamlining the process with the visa process, in conjunction with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62597/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment when he last met the CEO of the Corporate Enforcement Authority; when he is next scheduled to meet the CEO of Corporate Enforcement Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53691/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to name all of IDA Ireland client companies with operations in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53694/25]
  • 2025-09-08 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the details of the average processing time for employment permit appeals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46593/25]
• Social 6 questions

  • 2026-03-18 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Social Protection to review the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20595/26]
  • 2026-02-05 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Social Protection if a pension matter can be examined (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8866/26]
  • 2026-01-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of schools in Donegal that have applied for the school meals scheme for the 2025-2026 academic year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [74887/25]
  • 2025-07-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of WTE community welfare officers based in Donegal in 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39657/25]
  • 2025-06-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Social Protection the total number in receipt of the back-to-school clothing and footwear allowance in 2024, disaggregated by rate of payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33918/25]
  • 2025-06-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Social Protection the total administrative costs of the back-to-school clothing and footwear allowance in 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33919/25]
• Defence 6 questions

  • 2026-01-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Defence the number of promotions from the rank of regimental quartermaster sergeant to sergeant major within the Army which occurred in the years 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [74882/25]
  • 2026-01-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Defence the number of promotions from the rank of chief petty officer to warrant officer within the Naval Service which occurred in the years 2024 and to-date in 2025, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [74886/25]
  • 2025-11-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Defence if any military personnel or Department officials attended a recent conference in Israel organised by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on their intensive multifront campaign over the past two years, or any recent training conference or seminars organised by the IDF; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67246/25]
  • 2025-10-07 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if a new cadetship recruitment campaign for the Naval Service will be launched before the end of 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53682/25]
  • 2025-07-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if suitable qualified civilian personnel can apply to join the Defence Forces school of music; if not, if all posts within the school of music are reserved for sworn members of the Permanent Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39668/25]
  • 2025-04-09 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the refurbishment works that were carried out at Finner Camp in the years of 2023, 2024 and to-date in 2025; if each of those refurbishment works project are completed or still ongoing at present, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17682/25]
• Foreign 4 questions

  • 2026-03-24 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade her plans to expand Ireland's diplomatic presence across Japan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21995/26]
  • 2026-01-13 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if the Irish Consul General based in New York has met formally with the new Mayor of New York city; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [74907/25]
  • 2025-11-12 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he plans to visit Greece before the end of 2025 to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation ahead of Ireland's EU Presidency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61812/25]
  • 2025-11-12 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the amount that each Irish Honorary Consulate received in consulate fees in 2024 and for the first nine months of 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61813/25]
• Further and Higher Education 2 questions

  • 2026-01-29 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he will review the means test for SUSI grants for households impacted by the defective concrete crisis, in order that essential outgoings such as mortgages and rent are taken into consideration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7279/26]
  • 2025-07-15 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if there are plans for capital investment into further and higher education facilities within Donegal within the next 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39666/25]
• Climate 1 question

  • 2025-11-12 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the 2025 and 2026 capital budget allocation for his Department, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61810/25]
• Tourism 1 question

  • 2025-03-27 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media how Donegal will benefit from the newly restored scéim na mbóithre áise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14863/25]
• Environment 1 question

  • 2025-03-04 Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to liaise with a service provider (details supplied) to expedite the return of telephone and internet services to an area in Donegal (details supplied) where a business in this area cannot exist without proper communications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9223/25]