An Roinn Gnóthaí_ Pobail_ Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta

An Roinn Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACTS 1997 & 2003 SECTION 15 REFERENCE BOOK Functions and Records May 2007 -1- Section 15 Reference Book – Contents 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 6. 7. 7.1 7.2 7.3 Preamble .................................................................................................................................... 3 The Department‟s Mandate and Responsibilities ...................................................................... 5 The Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs ................................................... 7 Glossary of Terms ...................................................................................................................... 8 Access to Information within the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs ..... 9 Making Information available to the Public .............................................................................. 9 Rights of Review and Appeal .................................................................................................... 9 Internal Review ........................................................................................................................ 10 Review by the Information Commissioner .............................................................................. 10 Fees .......................................................................................................................................... 11 Functional breakdown of Role, Structure, Services And Records ........................................... 12 National Drugs Strategy ........................................................................................................... 12 Community And Local Development Unit .............................................................................. 14 White Paper On Supporting Voluntary Activity Implementation Unit And Corporate Social Responsibility .......................................................................................................................... 16 7.4 7.5 7.6 7.7 7.8 7.9 7.10 7.10 7.11 7.12 7.13 7.14 7.15 7.16 7.17 7.18 7.19 7.20 7.21 7.22 7.23 Community Support Programmes ............................................................................................ 17 Rural Development I ................................................................................................................ 19 Rural Development Division ii ................................................................................................ 22 Programme Inspectorate .......................................................................................................... 23 Charities Regulation................................................................................................................. 24 Dormant Accounts ................................................................................................................... 25 Review of Structures and Schemes .......................................................................................... 26 Irish Language Policy .............................................................................................................. 27 North/South Co-Operation Division (NSCD) .......................................................................... 29 Gaeltacht Policy And Schemes ................................................................................................ 30 Islands, Údarás Na Gaeltachta And Gaeltacht Policy .............................................................. 33 Personnel.................................................................................................................................. 34 Accommodation and Organisation........................................................................................... 35 Training And Development Unit ............................................................................................. 36 Information Technology (IT) Unit ........................................................................................... 37 Finance & Accounts................................................................................................................. 38 Internal Audit ........................................................................................................................... 39 Corporate Governance Unit ..................................................................................................... 40 Press Office .............................................................................................................................. 42 Minister‟s Office ...................................................................................................................... 43 Minister Of State‟s Office ........................................................................................................ 44 -2- 1. Preamble The Freedom of Information Acts, 1997 and 2003 assert the right of members of the public to obtain access to official information to the greatest extent possible consistent with the public interest and the right to privacy of individuals. The Act established three new statutory rights:    a legal right for each person to access information held by public bodies; a legal right for each person to have official information relating to him/herself amended when it is incomplete, incorrect or misleading; and a legal right to obtain reasons for decisions affecting oneself. This reference book has been prepared and published in accordance with the requirements of section 15 of the Act. Its purpose is to facilitate access to official information held by this Department, by outlining the structure and functions of the Department, details of the services provided and how they may be availed of, information on the classes of records held and information on how to make a request to the Department under the Freedom of Information Acts. Routinely Available Information The Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs currently makes information available to the public in relation to its functions, activities and schemes on its Website at www.pobail.ie and through the medium of press releases. Such information will continue to be available informally without the need to use FOI. This reference book highlights, in relation to each of the Department‟s activities, where information of this nature is available. The FOI Act is designed to allow public access to information contained in records held by public bodies, which is not routinely available through other sources. Access to information under the Act is subject to certain exemptions, and involves specific procedures and time limits. This reference book provides a guide to the structure of the Department to assist in the accessing of information under FOI. Information Available in Section 16 Reference Book Section 16 of the Freedom of Information Act, 1997 requires the publication of information regarding rules and practices in relation to certain decisions by public bodies. This Book which is currently under preparation will set out the rules, procedures, practices, guidelines, interpretations and precedents used for the purpose of decisions, determinations or recommendations under schemes operated by this Department. This Guide will be updated periodically to reflect changes in the operation of these schemes or the Department‟s internal procedures. Availability The Department‟s Section 15 reference book is available on the Department‟s Website at www.pobail.ie or on request from the Department‟s FOI Unit at Dún Aimhirgin, 43-49 Mespil Rd., Dublin 4. Lo-call 1890 474847 Tel: (01) 6473172/73, (01) 6473216; Fax: (01) 6473158 e-mail:FOI@pobail.ie. -3- Confidentiality The Department undertakes to use its best endeavours to hold confidential any information provided to it in confidence, subject to the Department‟s obligations under law, including the Freedom of Information Acts, 1997 and 2003. The Freedom of Information Acts provide for the exemption from release of certain records on grounds of their containing commercially sensitive or personal information or their having been submitted to the Department in confidence. Any person wishing that any of the information supplied to this Department should not be disclosed because of its sensitivity, should, when providing the information, identify the same and specify the reasons for its sensitivity. The application of these exemptions is decided on a case-by-case basis and is subject to a public interest test. Where the release of sensitive information in response to a Freedom of Information request is being contemplated on the basis of an overriding public interest, the supplier of the information will be notified in writing of the Department‟s intention and afforded an opportunity to make a submission to the Department before the finalising of the decision. -4- 2. The Department’s Mandate and Responsibilities MISSION STATEMENT To promote and support the sustainable and inclusive development of communities, both urban and rural, including Gaeltacht and island communities, thereby fostering better regional balance and alleviating disadvantage, and to advance the use of the Irish language. The Department‟s mandate is:    to produce a more co-ordinated engagement by the State with communities around the country, as they pursue their own development, to provide improved support for the voluntary sector and strengthen the State‟s relationship with that sector, and to provide support to communities in the most appropriate way as they work to shape their own futures, address common purposes and achieve their full potential The Department‟s areas of responsibility include:       Community & Local Development Programmes Rural Development Co-ordination of the National Drugs Strategy The Irish Language and the Gaeltacht The Offshore Islands North/South Co-operation In seeking to carry out its Mandate, the Department will:        seek to regenerate disadvantaged communities; continue to tackle drug misuse; protect and develop rural communities; support the Irish language and the development of the Gaeltacht; implement measures to further develop the islands; and promote democratic legitimacy on local boards appointed to implement development programmes regulate the charities sector The Department‟s four main sectors, together with the goals identified for each area are:  Community and Local Development Goal: To encourage and facilitate communities, with a special focus on areas of disadvantage, to pursue social and economic progress in their areas.  Tackling Drugs Misuse -5- Goal: To facilitate a more integrated and co-ordinated response by State agencies to tackle drug misuse with the aim of significantly reducing the harm caused to individuals and society. Rural, Gaeltacht and Islands development Goal: To promote and maintain living and working populations in rural and Gaeltacht areas and on the islands, by helping to foster sustainable and culturally vibrant communities in those areas.  Maintenance and Promotion of the Irish language Goal: To increase the use of the Irish language countrywide and to support the maintenance of the language in Gaeltacht areas.  North/South Co-operation Goal: To maintain, develop and foster North/South co-operation  The Department working with the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (Northern Ireland) and the North/South Ministerial Council Secretariat, support and fund Waterways Ireland in the maintenance and development of inland waterways. The Department also cosponsors An Foras Teanga with the Department of Culture Arts and Leisure, supporting the promotion of the Irish language through Foras na Gaeilge and promoting the Ulster-Scots language and culture through Tha Boord o Ulster-Scotch as provided for in the British-Irish agreement Acts. The Department is also responsible for the EU funding of the Programme for Peace and Reconciliation (Peace 11) and Interreg 111A through the Special EU Programmes Body. The measures under these Programmes are implemented on behalf of the Department by Border Action. -6- 3. The Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Minister – Éamon Ó Cuív, T.D. (Private Secretary: Sorcha de Brúch) Minister of State – Noel Ahern, T.D. (Private Secretary: Helen Murphy) Senior Management Structure Secretary General: Assistant Secretaries: Gerry Kearney Seosamh Ó hÁghmaill Brian Millane Kathleen Stack Principal Officers and main responsibilities: Michael Conroy: TJ Fleming: David Brennan: Finola Moylett: Mícheál Ó Corcora: National Drugs Strategy, Community and Local Development Unit, Community & Voluntary Supports National Rural Schemes EU Rural Development Schemes Donal Coleman (Senior Inspector): Programme Inspectorate Terry Dunne: Deaglán Ó Briain: Beirtí Ó hAinmhire: Séamus Mac Giolla Chomhaill: Susan Scally: Colm Treanor: Seamus Jackson: Mary Hurley: Charities Regulation North-South Co-operation, Irish Language Policy Gaeltacht Schemes, Gaeltacht Policy Údarás na Gaeltachta, Islands Review of Structures & Dormant Accounts Finance & Accounts Personnel, IT, T&D, Organisation, Decentralisation Corporate Governance -7- 4. Glossary of Terms Border Midland and Western Common Agricultural Policy Ceantair Laga Ard-Riachtanais Central Statistics Office Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs European Bureau for Lesser-Used Languages European Union Freedom of Information Government Publications Sales Office. Sales outlet for all published Government documents, based in Sun Alliance House, Molesworth St., Dublin 2 Human Resource Management Community initative for interregional cooperation which assists border regions and promotes joint projects between beneficiaries in different Member States Information Technology Local Drugs Task Forces Liasons Entre Actions de Development de l‟Economie Rurale (Links between actions for the development of the rural economy) Management Information Framework National Advisory Committee on Drugs National Anti-Poverty Strategy National Committee on Volunteering National Development Plan National Drugs Strategy Team Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development EU Funding Programme to reinforce progress towards a peaceful stable environment and to promote reconciliation Pobal (Formerly ADM – Area Development Management Ltd Performance Management and Development System Quality Customer Service Revitalising Areas by Planning, Investment and Development United Nations Western Development Commission World Trade Organisation Young Peoples Facilities and Services Fund BMW CAP CLÁR CSO DCRGA EBLUL EU FOI GPSO HRM INTERREG IT LDTF LEADER MIF NACD NAPS NCV NDP NDST OECD PEACE II Pobal PMDS QCS RAPID UN WDC WTO YPFSF -8- 5. Access to Information within the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Making Information available to the Public 5.1 Under the FOI Act, anyone is entitled to apply for access to information not otherwise publicly available. Each person has a right to request:  access to records held by the Department,  correction of personal information relating to oneself held by the Department where it is inaccurate, incomplete or misleading,  access to reasons for decisions made by the Department directly affecting oneself. NOTE: Subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information Acts, 1997 and 2003, the Department is required to acknowledge receipt of a request under the Act within two weeks and to respond to the request within 4 weeks. The following records come within the scope of the Act:  all records relating to personal information held by the Department irrespective of when created,  all records created from the FOI Act‟s commencement date of 21 April 1998,  all other records necessary to the understanding of a current record. Applications for information under the Freedom of Information Act should be addressed to: Siobhán Stack, FOI Officer, Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Dún Aimhirgin, 43-49 Mespil Road, Dublin 4. Tel: (01) 6473216. Fax: (01) 6473158. e-mail: FOI@pobail.ie  Applications should be in writing and should indicate that the information is being sought under the Freedom of Information Act. Please indicate if you are willing to accept the release of information outside the FOI Act.  A fee of €15 must accompany all requests for non-personal information. This fee is reduced to €10 for medical card holders or their dependants. Fees should be submitted in the form of a postal order, Bank Draft or cheque payable to the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.  Please note that this fee is refundable in the event of a request being withdrawn.  Please give as much information a possible to enable the staff of the Department to identify the record.  If information is desired in a particular form, (e.g. photocopy, computer disk, personal viewing etc.), this should be mentioned in your application.  Please include a daytime telephone number or e-mail address to facilitate staff of the Department in contacting you in the event of any queries arising. If you have difficulty in identifying the precise records that you require, the staff of the Department will be happy to assist you in preparing your request. 5.2 Rights of Review and Appeal The Act sets out a series of exemptions to protect sensitive information where its disclosure may damage key interests of the State or of Third Parties. The applicant will be advised where a Department invokes these provisions to withhold records. Virtually all decisions to -9- refuse the release of records may be appealed, as can decisions in relation to deferral of access, charges, forms of access etc. (See 5.3 and 5.4 below) 5.3 Internal Review You may seek internal review of the initial decision, which will be carried out by an official at a higher level if:  you are dissatisfied with the initial response received i.e. refusal of information, form of access, charges etc.,  you have not received a reply within 4 weeks of your initial application. This is deemed to be a refusal of your request and allows you to proceed to internal review. Requests for internal review should be submitted in writing to: Siobhán Stack, FOI Officer, Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Dún Aimhirgin, 43-49 Mespil Road, Dublin 4. Tel: (01) 6473216; Fax: (01) 6473158; e-mail: FOI@pobail.ie A request for internal review must be submitted within 4 weeks of the initial decision. Other than appeals against a decision to impose fees a request for internal review must be accompanied by the standard fee of €75 (€25 for medical card holders or their dependants). Fees should be submitted in the form of a postal order, Bank Draft or cheque payable to the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. The Department must complete the review within 3 weeks. An internal review may affirm, vary or annul the original decision in relation to a request. 5.4 Review by the Information Commissioner If you are still dissatisfied following completion of the internal review, you may also seek independent review of the decision from the Information Commissioner. If you have not received a reply to your application for internal review within 3 weeks, this is deemed to be a refusal and you may appeal the matter to the Commissioner. Appeals in writing may be made directly to the Information Commissioner at the following address accompanied by the standard fee of €150 (€50 for medical card holders or their dependants). Fees should be submitted in the form of a postal order, Bank Draft or cheque payable to the Office of the Information Commissioner to: Office of the Information Commissioner, 18 Lower Leeson Street, Dublin 2. Tel: (01) 678 5222. Fax: (01) 661 0570. NOTE: The internal review process must be exhausted before an appeal may be made to the Information Commissioner. - 10 - 6. Fees Pursuant to Section 47 of the Freedom of Information Act, 1997, in addition to the standard fees described above, additional fees may be charged as follows:  In respect of personal records, fees in respect of the cost of copying the records will apply, save where a large number of records are involved. In respect of other (non-personal) information, fees may be charged in respect of the time spent in efficiently locating and retrieving relevant records. The charge is based on a standard hourly rate prescribed by the Minister for Finance. A charge may also be levied in respect of the costs of copying the records. No charges may be applied in respect of time spent in considering requests. A deposit may be requested where the total fee is likely to exceed €50.79. In these circumstances the public body must, if requested, assist the member of the public to amend the request so as to reduce or eliminate the amount of the deposit. Charges may be waived in the following circumstances:  where the cost of collecting and accounting for the fee would exceed the amount of the fee;  where the information would be of particular assistance to the understanding of an issue of national importance; or  in the case of personal information, where such charges would not be reasonable having regard to the means of the requester. The Department adheres to guidelines set out by the Department of Finance in relation to the charging of fees. For further information, contact: Siobhán Stack, FOI Officer, Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, “Dún Aimhirgin”, 43-49 Mespil Road, Dublin 4; Tel: (01) 6473216; Fax: (01) 6473158; e-mail: foi@pobail.ie    - 11 - 7. FUNCTIONAL BREAKDOWN of ROLE, STRUCTURE, SERVICES and RECORDS 7.1 NATIONAL DRUGS STRATEGY Principal Officer: Michael Conroy 7.1.1 Role and Structure: The role of the Drugs Strategy Unit is to:  co-ordinate the implementation of the National Drugs Strategy 2001-2008, including facilitating the operation of initiatives such as those of the Local and Regional Drugs Task Forces and the Young People's Facilities and Services Fund.  report regularly to the Cabinet Committee on Social Inclusion on progress under the Strategy.  oversee the allocation of funding to implement the plans of the Local and Regional Drugs Task Forces.  have a representative on the National Drugs Strategy Team, which oversees the dayto-day operations of the Local and Regional Drugs Task Forces and assesses their plans.  provide the secretariat for the Inter-Departmental Group on Drugs, which is chaired by the Minister of State with responsibility for Drugs.  have a representative on the National Advisory Committee on Drugs.  provide the chair and secretariat for the National Assessment Committee of the Young People's Facilities and Services Fund (YPFSF).  chair the British-Irish Council Sectoral Group on the Misuse of Drugs. The Unit is headed by a Principal Officer, supported by 2 Assistant Principal Officers. 7.1.2 Services provided: Apart from queries of a general nature, the work of the Unit does not involve the provision of services to the public. 7.1.3 Information available and contact points: Drugs Strategy Unit Department of Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs 43-49 Mespil Road, Dublin 4. For information on the implementation of the National Drugs Strategy and the Young Peoples Facilities & Services Fund contact: Marie Dempsey Tel: (01) 6473094, e-mail: mdempsey@pobail.ie For further information on broad drugs policy, including the British-Irish Council Sectoral Group on the Misuse of Drugs, Eddie Arthurs, Tel: (01) 6473018, - 12 - e-mail earthurs@pobail.ie For further information on the National Advisory Committee on Drugs, contact: Mairéad Lyons, Director NACD Tel: (01) 6670760, e-mail: mairead@nacd.ie 7.1.4 Classes of records held: Records held by this Division relate to  policy matters in this area (including legislation)  operational matters (applications, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc) in relation to the functions described above  the Administration of the Division - 13 - 7.2 COMMUNITY AND LOCAL DEVELOPMENT UNIT Principal Officer: T.J. Fleming 7.2.1 Role and Structure: The Unit is responsible for  the overall management and funding of the Local Development Social Inclusion Programme 2000-2006 (LDSIP) in conjunction with Pobal;  the overall management and funding of Community Development Programme;  the co-ordination and implementation of the RAPID Programme nationally and the implementation of the RAPID Leverage Fund  reporting on the implementation of LDSIP to the two Regional Assemblies.  reporting to the Cabinet Committee on Social Inclusion on the implementation of the Community Development, Local Development Social Inclusion Programme and the RAPID Programme;  reports compiled for the National Economic and Social Forum on a range of Local Development issues;  the Department‟s oversight of the operations of Pobal;  providing advice and assistance to Ministers and senior management;  liaising with other Government Departments and Agencies and other interested parties on the development and implementation of the Programmes;  internal coordination in relation to the programmes and Pobal.. The Unit is headed by a Principal Officer supported by 2AP‟s, 6HEO‟s, 5EO‟s, 6CO‟s. 7.2.3 Information Available: Information is available by contacting the Unit – details below. Local Development, RAPID and Pobal Clodagh McDonnell, Community and Local Development Unit Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Teeling Street Tubbercurry County Sligo Ph: (071) 918 6770, e-mail: cmcdonnell@pobail.ie Community Development Programme Seán McLaughlin Community and Local Development Unit Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Teeling Street Tubbercurry County Sligo Ph: (071) 918 6785, e-mail: smclaughlin@pobail.ie 7.2.4 Classes of records held: Records held by this Division relate to  Policy matters in this area - 14 -   Operational matters (applications, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes, financial reports, monitoring reports, etc.) in relation to the functions described above The administration of the Division - 15 - 7.3 WHITE PAPER ON SUPPORTING VOLUNTARY ACTIVITY IMPLEMENTATION UNIT and CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Principal Officer: David Brennan 7.3.1 Role and Structure The role and functions of the Unit include:  Implementation of the recommendations of The White Paper on a Framework for Supporting Voluntary Activity;  Development of the relationship between the community and voluntary sector and the State;  Administration of (i) Funding Scheme to Support the Role of Federations, Networks and Umbrella Bodies and Training and Supports in the Community and Voluntary Sector (ii) Funding Scheme to Support National Anti-Poverty Networks (iii) Funding Scheme for Training and Supports in the Community and Voluntary Sector  Co-ordination of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) matters at national level, whereby companies integrate social and environmental concerns into their mainstream business practices. The Unit is headed by a Principal Officer supported by 1 AP, 1 HEO and 1 EO 7.3.3 Information Available Details of groups/organisations supported under the White Paper funding programmes can be accessed on the Department‟s website www.pobail.ie. For general information on issues relating to The White Paper on a Framework for Supporting Voluntary Activity; please contact: Community & Voluntary Supports Division, Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Teeling Street, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo. Telephone (071) 9186765/6. E-mail : aoreilly@pobail.ie, awalsh@pobail.ie bmcdonagh@pobail.ie 7.3.4 Classes of Records held Records held by this Division relate to  Policy matters in this area (including relevant legislation)  Operational matters (applications, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc) in relation to the functions described above  The Administration of the Division - 16 - 7.4 COMMUNITY SUPPORT PROGRAMMES Principal Officer: David Brennan 7.4.1 Role and Structure This area is responsible for:  The Programme of Grants for Locally-Based Community & Voluntary Organisations  The Scheme of Community Support for Older People  Funding Scheme to support and develop Volunteering The Unit is headed by a Principal Officer supported by 1 AP, 1 HEO, 1 EO and 3 CO. 7.4.2 Services This Division administers the Programme of Grants for Locally-Based Community & Voluntary Organisations with the assistance of Pobal (who carry out assessments of applications and issue payments). This is an annual programme of once-off grants covering refurbishment, equipment and training. The Division directly administers the Scheme of Community Support for Older People, the purpose of which is to encourage and assist the community‟s support for older people by means of a community based grant scheme to improve the security of its older members. The scheme is administered by local community and voluntary groups with the support of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and provides funding for a range of security measures for older people. The Division directly administers the Scheme of Grants to support Volunteer Bureau, which are members of Volunteer Centres Ireland. This includes making multi-annual payments directly to the Volunteer Bureau as well as Volunteer Centres Ireland. The Division also directly administers funding to a number of other community and voluntary organisations to assist in the development of the voluntary sector in Ireland. The organisations are; Boardmatch, Philanthropy Ireland, First Step, The Young Social Innovators Programme, Dublin Institute of Technology Community Learning Programme, Focus Ireland, Volunteering Ireland and Tallaght Volunteer Bureau. The Division also has a significant role in Active Citizenship through the Government – led Task Force on Active Citizenship. The Division also has responsibility to develop the work programme of the Forum on Philanthropy. 7.4.3 Information Available Guidelines and Application Forms for the Programme of Grants for Locally-Based Community & Voluntary Organisations and for the Scheme of Community Support for Older People. These Guidelines and Application Forms and details of the groups/organisations supported under these funding programmes can be accessed on the Department‟s website www.pobail.ie. For General Information, contact: Community & Voluntary Supports Division, Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Teeling Street, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo. - 17 - Telephone (071)9186765/6. E-mail : aoreilly@pobail.ie, dmooney@pobail.ie pdowd@pobail.ie General Information on Supports for Volunteer Bureau and other Volunteering Initiatives; contact: Community and Voluntary Supports Section, Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, 43-49 Mespil Rd. D4. 01 6473233/3249 email icully@pobail.ie, bmcgowan@pobail.ie, fphelan@pobail.ie 7.4.4 Classes of Records held Records held by this Division relate to  Policy matters in this area (including relevant legislation)  Operational matters (applications, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc) in relation to the functions described above  The Administration of the Division - 18 - 7.5 RURAL DEVELOPMENT I Principal Officer: Finola Moylette 7.5.1 Role and Structure The role of the Division is to  oversee the development of rural development policy,  implement the Western Development Commission Act, 1998,  implement the CLÁR Programme and the Rural Social Scheme,  maximise North/South co-operation in rural development,  deliver on the commitments in the White Paper on Rural Development  Farm Relief Services  Comhairle na Tuaithe  Farm Electrification Grants Scheme The Unit is headed by a Principal Officer supported by 4AP, 4.5HEO, 6EO, 1SO, 6CO 7.5.2 Services Rural development policy is contained in the White Paper on Rural Development, which deals with the broad issues of physical and social conditions, economic development, community participation and social exclusion in rural areas. Delivery of the commitments in the White Paper is through the programmes and investments of Departments and Agencies under the National Development Plan. The Division administers the Rural Development Fund, which was established under the White Paper to finance research, evaluations and pilot actions, where appropriate, to provide information and advice to policy makers The Division also administers the Farm Electrification Grant Scheme. The EC funded Western Package Scheme (1980-1990) initially provided financial assistance for farm electrification. This Scheme was discontinued due to exhaustion of its financial allocation. The Farm Electrification Grant Scheme (FEGS) was introduced in 1990 to carry on the provision of financial assistance to farmers. On 1 August 1994, a revised scaled down FEGS was introduced – eligibility criteria were clarified and maximum limits of grant aid were established. FEGS provides financial assistance to farmers in designated Disadvantaged Areas who wish to provide or increase eligibility criteria. The ESB meets 60% of the cost and the Department 20%. On 1st January 2005,the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs took over responsibility for the Farm Electrification Grant Scheme for Disadvantaged areas from the Department of Marine, Communications and Natural Resources. This Scheme is designed to subsidise the installation of electricity to farms which previously had no supply or where supply is inadequate in order to facilitate the development and modernisation of farms in disadvantaged areas of the country. The Division is responsible for paying the Western Development Commission‟s annual grant-in-aid and advances under the Western Investment Fund (WIF), which it manages in support of economic and social development in its region. CLÁR (Ceantair Laga Ard-Riachtanais) Programme funds and provides co-funding to Government Departments, State Agencies and Local Authorities in accelerating investment in - 19 - selected priority developments. These measures support physical, community and social infrastructure across a variety of measures (Electricity, Roads, Water & Sewerage, Enhancement, Community, Initiatives, Islands). Details of the measures to give effect to the priorities identified in the selected areas are set out in the Section 16 reference book. The Rural Social Scheme is delivered, at local level by LEADER companies and in the Gaeltacht areas by the LEADER companies in conjunction with Údarás na Gaeltachta. The aims of the scheme are to provide income support for Farmers and Fisher persons who are currently in receipt of long-term social welfare payments, and to provide certain services of benefit to rural communities. The RSS allows low-income Farmers and Fisher persons who are unable to earn an adequate living from their farm holding/fishing, to earn a supplementary income. Further details in relation to the RSS are set out in the Section 16 reference book. As regards maximising co-operation in cross-border rural development, the Department jointly chairs the Steering Committee on Cross-Border Rural Development with the Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. In addition to the two Departments, the NSMC Secretariat and the Special EU Programmes Body are members of the Committee. Farm Relief Services This NDP 2000 – 2006 sub-measure provides for the expansion of existing farm relief services by providing training for new and existing personnel, undertaking research to identify the needs, demands and opportunities for the services as they arise and building and equipping further local offices Comhairle na Tuaithe consists of representatives from the farming organisations, recreational users of the countryside and state bodies with an interest in the countryside. It was established to address the three issues of:    Access to the countryside for recreational use Development of a countryside code Development of a National Countryside Recreation Strategy 7.5.3 Information Available Further information is available as follows: Rural Development Policy Western Development Commission Rural Development Fund Cross border co-operation CLÁR Karen Flynn Tel (01) 647 3230 Email: kflynn@pobail.ie Tel (071) 9186718 Email: pboyle@pobail.ie Catherine Burns Tel (071) 9186715 Email: cburns@pobail.ie Linda Farrell Tel (071) 9186711 Email: lfarrell@pobail.ie Pat Boyle Rural Social Scheme Caroline Carey Tel (071) 9186723 Email: ccarey@pobail.ie Nora Durcan Tel(071)9186724 - 20 - Email: ndurcan@pobail.ie Farm Relief Services Laurence Keating Tel: (01) 6473219 E mail: lkeating@pobail.ie Laurence Keating Tel: (01) 6473219 E mail: lkeating@pobail.ie Comhairle na Tuaithe 7.5.4 Classes of Records Held Records held by this Division relate to  Policy matters in this area (including applicable legislation)  Operational matters (applications, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc.) in relation to the functions described above  The administration of the Division - 21 - 7.6 RURAL DEVELOPMENT DIVISION II Principal Officer: Mícheál Ó Corcora 7.6.1 Role and Structure The role of the Division is to contributes to the implementation of Government rural development policy through the operation of the  LEADER programme (Liaison Entre Action Development de L‟Economie Rurale)  Budgetary Control for LEADER Programmes The Division also provides technical support to the LEADER Inspectorate, which consists of inspectors based at regional locations. The Unit is headed by a Principal Officer supported by 2AP, 2HEO, 5EO and 1CO 7.6.2 Services Under the LEADER Programmes, approved local action groups are provided with public funding to help implement local business plans which they themselves have drawn up for the development of their areas. The Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs is the National Authority responsible for the administration of LEADER activity in Ireland. This involves monitoring and control of expenditure and accounting for the use of public funds. The LEADER groups act under contract with the Department and each group is the decision-making authority in relation to the grant aiding of local projects. Applications for LEADER grant assistance and under the National Rural Development Programme are made directly to the LEADER Local Action Group Company. Copies of the operating rules for these programmes are available from LEADER Groups or on the Internet at www.pobail.ie. 7.6.3 Information Available  Leaflets and Brochures giving general information on LEADER activity  EU Community Initiative documentation regarding LEADER Operational Programme for the implementation of the EU LEADER +/ABRDI Initiative in Ireland 2000 2007  List of LEADER Local Action Groups and contact names for each group: LEADER groups issue publications giving information on projects and financial aspects  Operating rules for LEADER Programmes  Advisory information on forthcoming LEADER Programmes  Evaluation Reports on LEADER Programmes Contact LEADER: David Dalton Tel: (01) 6473205 E-mail: ddalton@pobail.ie 7.6.4 Classes of records Records held by this Division relate to  Policy matters in this area (including relevant legislation)  Operational matters (applications, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc.) in relation to the functions described above  The administration of the Division - 22 - 7.7 Programme Inspectorate Senior Inspector: Donal Coleman 7.7.1 Role and Structure The role of the inspectorate is to provide financial and administrative verification of programme and measure based projects carried out by a range of local action groups, community groups and private promoters. The key objective of the inspection process is to provide assurance on expenditure of public funds to EU Auditors and the Office of the C&AG. The Unit is headed by a Senior Inspector supported by 3 Regional Inspectors, 7 District Inspectors and 1 HEO 7.7.2 Services The core inspection function traditionally covers Leader, CLAR, RSS and Rural Development Fund. From 2007 all Department programmes and schemes will be subject to inspection, commencing with RAPID and CSP. The nature of the inspection process covers all aspects of group administrative and legal structure as well as monitoring and control of disbursement of Department and EU funds. At promoter level the main focus is on project eligibility and verification of costs and expenditure. 7.7.3 Information Available National Rural Development Programme 2007 - 2013 Contact General Inspection Services: Tim Daly Tel: (071) 9186750 E-mail: tdaly@pobail.ie 7.7.4 Classes of records Records held by the Inspectorate relate to  Policy matters in this area (including relevant legislation)  Operational matters (Inspection reports, correspondence, briefing notes etc.) in relation to the functions described above  The administration of the Inspectorate - 23 - 7.8 CHARITIES REGULATION Principal Officer: Terry Dunne 7.8.1 Role and Structure The Charities Regulation Unit‟s role is to deliver a comprehensive reform of the law relating to charities in order to secure accountability and to protect against abuse of charitable status and fraud 7.8.2 Services provided: Apart from queries of a general nature, the work of the Unit does not involve the provision of services to the public. 7.8.3 Information Available: The Unit is headed by a Principal Officer supported by 1AP, 1HEO, 1EO, 1CO. Further information may be had by contacting the Unit. Contact: Redmond Aherne, Charities Regulation Unit Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Mespil Road Dublin 4 Ph: 01-6473000, e-mail: raherne@pobail.ie 7.8.4 Classes of Records Held Records held by this Division relate to  Policy and operational matters (correspondence, briefing notes, minutes etc.) in relation to the introduction of a regulatory framework for charities  The administration of the Division  Matters relating to the Commissioners of Charitable Donations and Bequests for Ireland - 24 - 7.9 DORMANT ACCOUNTS Principal Officer: Susan Scally 7.9.1 Role and Structure The Dormant Accounts legislation provides for a scheme for the disbursement of funds that are unlikely to be reclaimed for projects and programmes designed to tackle disadvantage and to assist persons with a disability. The legislation targets three broad categories of persons for support from the fund:    those affected by economic and social disadvantage those affected by educational disadvantage; and persons with a disability Decisions in relation to disbursements from the Fund are made by Government within the framework of a Disbursement Plan prepared by the independent Dormant Accounts Board. The main functions of this division are:  overseeing effective procedures for Dormant Accounts disbursements;  co-ordinating the submission of proposals to Government for decisions in accordance with the Dormant Accounts legislation;  liaising with other Government Departments and Agencies; and  liaising with the Dormant Accounts Board. The Division is headed by a Principal Officer supported by a 1AP, 1HEO and 1EO. 7.9.2 Services This division is primarily a policy area, no services of an operational nature are provided directly to the public. . 7.9.3 Information Available For general information, email info@dormantaccounts.ie or contact Lo-call 1890 457058. Information in relation to funding programmes and details of the large number of groups/organisations supported through the Fund can be accessed on the Department‟s website www.pobail.ie. 7.9.4 Classes of Records Held Records held by this Division relate to  Policy matters in this area (including relevant legislation)  Operational matters (applications, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc) in relation to the functions described above  The Administration of the Division - 25 - 7.10 Review of Structures and Schemes Principal Officer: Susan Scally 7.9.1. Role and Structure The Department was established against a background of concern at the multiplicity of structures through which schemes and programmes relating to community and local development are delivered. Accordingly the Department is reviewing these structures and schemes in order to maximise the impact, coherence and effectiveness of these programmes. The Principal Officer, working in conjunction with the operational divisions, is responsible for making progress with the review and for providing advice and assistance to senior management. An Assistant Principal also contributes to this work. 7.9.2 Services As this area is primarily a policy area, no services of an operational nature are provided to the public. Service is provided to the senior management of the Department. The main functions are: - providing advice and assistance to senior management, - making operational arrangements for the elements of the review of structures and schemes, - liasing with other Government Departments and Agencies and other interested parties, - liasing with the divisions in the Department that have line responsibility for existing schemes. 7.9.3 Information Available For further information contact Mr. John Donohoe, Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs at the above address. Telephone (01) 6473082, e-mail jdonohoe@pobail.ie. 7.9.4. Classes of Records Records held in this area relate to  policy matters  schemes and structures in the local and community development area  contacts with other Government Departments and Agencies and other interested parties  operational matters relating to the review of structures and schemes that is underway in the Department. - 26 - 7.10 IRISH LANGUAGE POLICY Principal: Deaglán Ó Briain 7.10.1 Role and Structure The role of this Division is to:  provide, through the implementation of the Official Languages Act 2003, statutory support for the constitutional status of the Irish language which will seek to ensure the delivery of a quality customer service throughout the public service in Irish as well as English;  encourage the expansion of the use of Irish and the delivery of State services through Irish on a countrywide basis;  Manage Ciste na Gaeilge, a grant scheme for promotion of the Irish language outside the Gaeltacht  develop a twenty-year strategic plan for Irish;  maintain effective working relationships with Government Departments, State agencies and other bodies to ensure that Government policy in relation to the Irish language will be taken into account in their activities;  support the implementation of Government policy in relation to the Irish language through the activities of Foras na Gaeilge (the Irish language agency of An Foras Teanga, the North/South Language Body, which comprises two separate agencies i.e. Foras na Gaeilge and Tha Boord o Ulster-Scots, the Ulster-Scots Agency);  maintain effective working relationships with the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure in the North so as to support the work of An Foras Teanga;  support the work of the Placenames Branch in making available certified Irish forms of placenames and information on placenames; and  co-operate with the An Coimisiún Logainmneacha to develop and implement a comprehensive policy in relation to Irish placenames. The Division is headed by a Principal supported by three Assistant Principals with responsibility respectively for;  The Official Languages Act 2003  The Placenames Branch, and  Language Policy. 7.10.2 Services Other than in relation to Placenames and Ciste na Gaeilge, the Division does not provide any services direct to the public, but primarily operates through liaison with and monitoring of the bodies listed below. An Foras Teanga is the North/South Language Body established under the British-Irish Agreement 1999. It comprises two separate agencies i.e. Foras na Gaeilge and Tha Boord o Ulstér-Scots, the Ulster-Scots Agency) and is financed on a North/South basis according to agreed ratios. The grants, which are paid in monthly instalments, are monitored. Contact is maintained on an ongoing basis in relation to the policies and activities of the Body. Bord na Leabhar Gaeilge is a non-statutory board that supports the publication of books in Irish. It is financed through Ciste na Gaeilge and its activities are monitored by the Division. - 27 - The Placenames Branch provides administrative support to the Placenames Commission in addition to its core role in researching the placenames of Ireland and providing authoritative Irish language forms of those placenames. 7.9.3 Obtaining Information For general information and information on Ciste na Gaeilge, contact: Máirtín Ó Cuinn, Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Na Forbacha, Co. Galway. Tel: (091) 503766; e-mail: mocuinn@pobail.ie For information on the Placenames Branch contact: Dónall Mac Giolla Easpaig, Brainse na Logainmneacha, 43-49 Mespil Road. Tel: (01) 647 3000; Fax: (01) 6787421 e-mail: placenames@pobail.ie. 7.10.4 Classes of Records Records held by this Division relate to  Policy matters in this area (including relevant legislation)  Operational matters (applications, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc.) in relation to the functions described above  The Administration of the Division  Applications for grants from Ciste na Gaeilge - 28 - 7.11 NORTH/SOUTH CO-OPERATION DIVISION (NSCD) Principal Officer: Deaglán Ó Briain 7.11.1 Role and Structure The Division is responsible for:  The provision of appropriate support for Waterways Ireland  The co-ordination of North/South contacts of the Department  The development of North/South policy initiatives  Administration of the Programme for Peace & Reconciliation The Division is headed by a Principal Officer supported by an AP. 7.11.2 Services Provided No services concerning North/South issues are delivered directly to the public. Information concerning the Programme for Peace & Reconciliation be obtained from NSCD 7.11.3 Information Available For general information, contact: Karl Unger 43-49 Mespil Road. Tel: (01) 647 3000; Email: kunger@pobail.ie 7.11.4 Classes of Records Records held by this Division relate to  Policy matters in this area (including relevant legislation)  Operational matters (minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc) in relation to the functions described above  The Administration of the Division - 29 - 7.12 GAELTACHT POLICY AND SCHEMES Principal Officer Beirtí Ó hAinmhire 7.12.1 Role and Structure The Division‟s main responsibilities are as follows:  To provide capital grants for the development of the economic and social infrastructure of Gaeltacht areas including maritime works, roads, and facilities such as community halls, sportsfields. These grants are designed to enhance the social, cultural and economic life of Gaeltacht areas and to strengthen Irish as the community language within them;  To provide housing grants for qualified applicants in the Gaeltacht;  To operate Cultural and Social Schemes in the Gaeltacht, (including the Scheme for Learners of Irish; Scheme for Language Assistants; and Scheme for Summer Camps).  To advance the language planning process in the Gaeltacht and to assist in the analysis and implementation of the recommendations contained in the Report of the Linguistic Study on the Use of Irish in the Gaeltacht. The Division is headed by a Principal Officer supported by three Assistant Principal Officers with responsibility for Gaeltacht Cultural and Social schemes, Improvement Schemes and Gaeltacht policy respectively. Regional Directors oversee the administration of the various schemes at local level through the Department‟s offices in Galway, Acaill, Tralee and Gaoth Dobhair. 7.12.2 Services Provided The following services are provided through the Department‟s offices in Na Forbacha, Co. Galway: Improvement Schemes in the Gaeltacht  capital grants for Local Authorities to improve maritime works and strategic and access roads in the Gaeltacht;  capital grants to local committees for the provision or improvement of facilities such as community halls, sports fields and other facilities. Grants under the Housing Acts (Gaeltacht) – paid to qualified applicants in the Gaeltacht to build new houses and to improve existing houses. Scheme for Learners of Irish – paid to qualified families in the Gaeltacht to accommodate learners of Irish while they attend recognised Irish Colleges. Adult Irish Language Courses in the Gaeltacht – paid to recognised committees organising Irish language courses in the Gaeltacht, which are aimed at adults. Scheme for the Speaking of Irish – a grant paid to families in the Gaeltacht who can satisfy the Department that Irish is their normal spoken language. Scheme to Encourage Irish - Assistance is provided for those who are refused a grant to build a new house, if they can satisfy the Department that conditions concerning the Irish language and permanent residence will be fulfilled within a period of four years. Other Cultural Assistance - 30 - Annual assistance is available for organisations working to maintain the Irish language in the Gaeltacht. Grants are also paid for cultural events, in which the Irish language has a central role, or ones that will benefit the Irish language and the cultural and social life of Gaeltacht areas. Assistance is also paid for the provision of special equipment for various organisations, schools etc. Irish Language Summer Camps‟ Scheme for Gaeltacht Youth The Department supports Committees that organise suitable summer camps aimed at Gaeltacht youth in particular and which seek to strengthen the Irish language by organising educational events (including computing, crafts, drama etc). Language Assistants‟ Scheme The Language Assistants‟ Scheme was started in 1999 to strengthen Irish as a spoken language among the youth of the Gaeltacht and to influence the behaviour of school students with regard to Irish. The Gaeltacht Schools Organisation provides Irish language experts for children in Gaeltacht schools whose main language may not be Irish or who may require extra help with it. Gaeltacht Policy To advise on Gaeltacht policies which will aid the development and maintenance of the Irish language and the Gaeltacht generally. Also to coordinate the Department‟s work in the Gaeltacht with Údarás na Gaeltachta In addition to this, regular contact is maintained with relevant State Departments and other bodies. 7.12.3 Information Available Information leaflets are available regarding the various Gaeltacht schemes. For further information may be had by contacting: For general information, contact: Séamus Ó Finneadha Na Forbacha Co Galway Tel: 091 – 503721 Bríd Ní Chonghaile, Na Forbacha Co Galway Tel: 091 - 503715 For information on Gaeltacht Policy Section:Uinseann Mac Thómais Tel: 091-503705 umacthomais@pobail.ie Information is also available from the Senior Housing Inspector and from local departmental Directors. Co. Donegal The Director The Industrial Estate, Na Doire Beaga, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. Tel: (075) 31598; Fax: (075) 31762; E-mail: gaeltachtnadoiribeaga@pobail.ie - 31 - Co. Galway, Co. Mayo and Meath The Director Na Forbacha, Galway. Tel: (091) 503700; Fax: (091) 503750; E-mail: gaeltachtnaforbacha@pobail.ie Munster The Director, Tralee, Co. Kerry. Tel: (066) 7121303; Fax:(066) 7123718; E-mail: gaeltachttrali@pobail.ie Senior Housing Inspector Na Forbacha Galway. Tel: (091) 503712; Fax: (091) 503750; E-mail: pocinneide@pobail.ie 7.12.4 Classes of Records Records held by this Division relate to  Policy matters in this area (including relevant legislation)  Operational matters (applications, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc) n relation to the functions described above  The Administration of the Division - 32 - 7.13 ISLANDS, ÚDARÁS NA GAELTACHTA AND GAELTACHT POLICY Principal Officer: Séamus Mac Giolla Chomhaill 7.13.1 Role and Structure The main responsibilities of the Section are as follows:  To promote the sustainable development of the islands and attempt to endeavour to ensure the provision of adequate levels of services for island communities;  To facilitate the supply of an adequate level of access throughout the year for island communities;  To co-ordinate and promote Government policy regarding the islands;  To support the implementation of Government policy with regard to the Irish language and the Gaeltacht by means of the activities of Údarás na Gaeltachta. The external staff in the regional Gaeltacht offices of County Galway (Na Forbacha), County Kerry (Tralee) and County Donegal (Gaoth Dobhair), have particular responsibilities with regard to implementing policies and programmes concerning the islands. Technical advice is also available from the Department‟s Senior Inspector who is based in Na Forbacha. 7.13.2 Services Provided The following services are provided through the office in Na Forbacha: The Islands - to support the provision of services (including access, infrastructure, ferry/air services, etc) connected with life on the islands. Údarás na Gaeltachta Údarás na Gaeltachta is a statutory State body funded by annual grants. The expenditure of this funding (which is paid in monthly instalments) and the policies implemented are monitored. Regular discussions take place with Údarás regarding this and its various activities and projects. Gaeltacht Policy To advise on Gaeltacht policies which will aid the development of Irish and the Gaeltacht generally. Recommendations of the Gaeltacht Commission‟s Report and an analysis being carried out by the Advisory Committee in this regard form a basis for the work. In addition to this, regular contact is maintained with relevant State Departments and other bodies. 7.13.3 Information Available To obtain further information regarding the work of the Division in Na Forbacha, contact: Islands Section: Údarás na Gaeltachta Section: Aodhán Mac Cormaic Gearóid Ó Catháin Tel: 091-503717 Tel: 091-503722 amaccormaic@pobail.ie gocathain@pobail.ie Information is also available from the local departmental Directors. 7.13.4 Classes of Records Records held by this Division relate to  Policy matters in this area (including relevant legislation)  Operational matters (applications, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc)in relation to the functions described above  The Administration of the Division - 33 - 7.14 PERSONNEL Principal Officer: Seamus Jackson 7.14.1 Role and Structure The Personnel Division is responsible for Human Resources Management in the Department, which employs administrative and professional staff, and for providing HRM support in State Sponsored Bodies under the aegis of the Department. The role of the Personnel Division is to  advise management on all matters relating to human resources;  arrange for recruitment, selection and assignment of staff including preparation of contracts of employment and promotion competitions;  direct the payment of salaries and wages and updating rates as necessary;  implement the Personnel regulations as contained in the Personnel code;  deliver the Equality & Diversity Policy for the Civil Service;  take responsibility for policy and practice of industrial relations for the Department including disciplinary and grievance matters;  manage the Superannuation Scheme for staff of the Department;  manage receptionist and telephonist services;  provide an advisory service to the management of the semi-state bodies under the aegis of the Department;  provide an Employee Assistance Service for staff  support the implementation of the Department‟s decentralisation programme. The Division is headed by an Assistant Principal supported by 1 HEO, 2 EO, 3 CO 7.14.3 Information Available Information concerning conditions of service and personnel records are available to the staff of the Department. For general information, contact: Breda Kilkenny, Tel: (071) 9186733; E-mail: bkilkenny@pobail.ie 7.13.4 Classes of Records Records held by this Division relate to  Staff Personnel Files  Policy matters in this area (including relevant legislation and circulars)  Operational matters (applications, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc.) in relation to the functions described above  The administration of the Division - 34 - 7.15 Accommodation and Organisation Principal Officer: Seamus Jackson 7.15.1Role and Structure The role of the Section is to:  Provide suitable accommodation and related services to meet the needs of the Department;  provide a high awareness among all staff of Health, Safety and Welfare at work and ensuring that appropriate training is provided and that safe systems of work are followed;  supply and maintaining office machinery, equipment and furniture for the Department  support the implementation of the Department‟s decentralisation programme. The Division is headed by an Assistant Principal supported by 2EO, 0.5CO 7.15.3 Information Available For further information contact: Gerry Doyle, Tel: (01) 6473084 Fax: (01) 6473096, E-mail: gdoyle@pobail.ie 7.15.4 Classes of Records Records held by this Division relate to  Policy matters in this area (including relevant legislation and circulars)  Operational matters (applications, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc.) in relation to the functions described above  The Administration of the Division - 35 - 7.16 TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT UNIT Principal Officer: Seamus Jackson 7.16.1 Role and Structure The role of the Unit is to  ensure the personal and professional development of staff through training and arranging for the refund of fees for training and educational courses  implement in conjunction with Personnel Unit a structured process of Performance Management and Development  support the implementation of the Department‟s decentralisation programme. The Unit is headed by an Assistant Principal supported by 1HEO, 1EO, 1.5 CO 7.16.3 Information Available Training and Development Strategy 2005-2007, Training Manual Training Courses Further information may be had by contacting the unit. Paul Kelly, Tel: (01) 6473155 Fax: (01) 6473096, e-mail: pkelly@pobail.ie 7.16.4 Classes of Records Records held by this Division relate to  Policy matters in this area  Operational matters (applications, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc.) in relation to the functions described above  The administration of the Division - 36 - 7.17 Information Technology (IT) Unit Principal Officer: Seamus Jackson 7.17.1 Role and Structure The role of the Unit is to  develop, implement and maintain appropriate ICT systems in all offices and areas of the Department for the purpose of supporting policy and organisational goals,  act as a management tool, to facilitate organisational change and the provision of better services to the public though the application of the ICT function, and  support the implementation of the Department‟s decentralisation programme. The Unit is headed by an Assistant Principal supported by 3 HEO, 4EO, 1CO 7.17.3 Information Available IT Strategy Plan For further information, contact Owen Lenehan, Tel: (01) 6473140 Fax: (01) 6473158, e-mail: olenehan@pobail.ie 7.17.4 Classes of Records Records held by this Division relate to  Policy matters in this area  Operational matters in relation to the functions described above  The administration of the Division - 37 - 7.18 FINANCE & ACCOUNTS Principal Officer: Colm Treanor 7.18.1 Role and Structure The Division is responsible for:  the accounts service for the Department,  provision of financial information for management  co-ordination of annual and multi-annual estimates  production of Appropriation Accounts  co-ordination of the Department‟s role in relation to the National Development Plan The unit is headed by a Principal Officer supported by 2 Assistant Principals and a Professional Accountant who are responsible respectively for:  Accounts Branch - dealing with accounts payable and receivable, general ledger and salaries, and  Finance Unit - dealing with financial reporting, estimates, and allocations and  MIF (Management Information Framework) Unit - dealing with the support and development of the integrated financial management system. 7.18.2 Services Provided Payments, mostly to contractors grantees, agencies and suppliers. 7.18.3 Information Available The Department's audited Appropriation Accounts are included in the Annual Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General published in September of each year (www.audgen.gov.ie). Details of the Department's Annual Estimates Allocations are included in the Abridged and Revised Estimates Volumes published by the Department of Finance (www.finance.gov.ie). The Department's Annual Output Statement is available on the Department's website (www.pobail.ie/en/CorporateSupportServices/Finance). All other published information in relation to the work of the Division is included in the Department's Annual Report. For general information contact: the Accounts Branch at 071 918 6700, MIF Unit at 071 918 6700 Finance Unit at 01 6473000. 7.18.4 Classes of Records Records held by this Division relate to  Policy matters in this area (including relevant legislation)  Operational matters (financial records, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc) in relation to the functions described above  The Administration of the Division - 38 - 7.19 INTERNAL AUDIT Assistant Principal Officer: Rory O’Rua 7.19.1 Role and Structure The role of the Unit is to:  provide a systems-based internal audit service to the Department;  review and report on the adequacy and application of the Departments internal controls and the economy, efficiency and effectiveness of the Departments operations, systems and programmes;  produce reports and recommendations at the end of each audit, which are provided to the Secretary General, and to other senior managers in the Department, for their consideration and attention. Copies of internal audit reports are also forwarded to the Comptroller and Auditor General‟s Office. Internal Audit also has specific audit responsibilities to the European Commission in relation to EU Structural Funds. The Unit is headed by an Assistant Principal, reporting directly to the Secretary General, with 3 additional staff at HEO level. The work of the Unit is overseen by an Audit Committee. This is an independent committee whose role is to provide objective recommendations in relation to, and assistance and advice on, the work of the Internal Audit Unit, and on matters that relate to internal audit. The Committee has an independent chairman and its membership consists of two other external representatives, and one internal representative. 7.19.2 Services Provided As the services provided by the Unit are internal, none are delivered directly to the public. 7.19.3 Information Available An information booklet for staff on the role and operation of internal audit, includes an Internal Audit Charter incorporating a Charter and Terms of Reference for the Audit Committee. For further information, contact: Marie McBride Internal Audit Unit, Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, 43-49 Mespil Road, Dublin 4. Tel: (01) 647 3146 Fax: (01) 647 3051 E-mail: mmcbride@pobail.ie 7.19.4 Classes of Records Records held by this Division relate to:    Policy matters in this area (including relevant legislation) Operational matters (audit reports, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc.) in relation to the functions described above The Administration of the Division - 39 - 7.20 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE UNIT Principal Officer: Mary Hurley 7.20.1 Role and Structure The role of the Corporate Governance Unit is to  provide on-going support to senior management and line divisions in the Department,  provide advice and support to line divisions in respect of Corporate Governance and best practice,  co-ordinate the Department‟s approach and response to issues affecting more than one division of the Department,  co-ordinating and collating material and responses to Parliamentary questions,  promote various aspects of the Government‟s modernisation programme under the Strategic Management Initiative including facilitating the Partnership process within the Department, and Quality Customer Services (QCS)  develop and facilitate a business continuity plan for the Department,  oversee and further roll-out Risk Management throughout the Department,  oversee the implementation of the Freedom of Information Acts (FOI) within the Department,  develop and promote the corporate identity and ethos of the Department,  point of contact for FOI and QCS, and  provide secretariat support to Dormant Accounts Board The Unit is headed by a Principal Officer supported by AP, 1HEO, 4EOs 7.20.3 Information Available Strategy for Enhanced Customer Service 2004-2007, Customer Charter, Codes of Practice and Procedures for Handling Customer Complaints, Customer Service Comment Card Department Publications: Strategy Statement 2005-2007 Annual Report The Strategy Statement and Annual Report(s) are available on the Department‟s website www.pobail.ie For further information, contact Dairearca Ní Néill Tel: (01) 647 3211, Fax: (01) 647 3158, Email: dnineill@pobail.ie 7.20.4 Classes of Records Records held relate to  Policy matters in the area (including relevant legislation)  Operational matters (reports, FOI Requests, minutes, correspondence, briefing notes etc.) in relation to the functions described above  The administration of the Division - 40 - - 41 - 7.21 PRESS OFFICE Press Officer: Layla de Cogan Chin, AO 7.21.1 Role and Structure The role of this office is to  act as a support service to the Minister, Minister of State and the Department,  provide a bilingual information service to public, media, internal and professional customers about the work of the Department.  Prepare / write / edit and issue Press Releases about the Ministers' and the Department‟s work, and organise press briefings, media events and photocalls;  respond to queries by phone, email, fax and letter.  provide a news monitoring service for the Minister and Minister of State and Department;  co-ordinate and prepare Ministerial speeches;  establish and maintain good relationships with journalists and Government Information Service;  assist with the maintenance of the Departmental website;  facilitate information sharing within the Department. The Press Office is headed by an Administrative Officer, supported by 1 EO, 2 CO and 1 Translator, and is part of the Corporate Governance Unit. 7.21.2 Services Provided This office acts as a „first port of call‟ for queries. In addition, the office provides information on the work of the Department through press releases and by providing information for articles, newsletters and other publications 7.21.3 Information Available Press releases Articles and information for magazines, newsletters and other publications. General enquiries should be directed to: Layla de Cogan Chin, Tel: (01) 6473156; Fax: (01) 667 0826. E-mail: eolas@pobail.ie 7.21.3 Classes of Records Records held relate to:  Requests for information about the work of the Department  Electronic records - speeches, press releases / statements, requests for interviews, requests for information, press clippings.  Operational matters in relation to the functions described above  administration of the Division - 42 - 7.22 MINISTER’S OFFICE Private Secretary: Sorcha de Brúch 7.22.1 Role and Structure The role of the Minister‟s Office is:  to provide a secretarial function for the Minister,  to co-ordinate the Minister‟s activities,  liaise between the Department and the Minister The Office is headed by a Higher Executive Officer (Private Secretary) supported by 5 CO. 7.22.2 Services Provided The Office deals with all queries directed to the Minister. These queries may be received from other Ministers, Dáil Deputies and members of the public, either by telephone or by letter. Constituency matters are also dealt with. 7.22.3 Information Available For further information, contact: Sorcha De Brúch Minister‟s Office Tel: (01) 647 3057, Fax: (01) 647 3101; e-mail: sdebruch@pobail.ie Contact details for the Constituency Office, Galway Máirín Ní Choisdealbha, Minister‟s Constituency Office, Kirwan House, Flood Street, Galway. Tel: (091) 562 846; Fax: (091) 562 844; e-mail: mnichoisdealbha@pobail.ie 7.22.4 Classes of Records  Representations  Correspondence  Invitations  Office Administration - 43 - 7.23 MINISTER OF STATE’S OFFICE Private Secretary: Helen Murphy 7.23.1 Role and Structure The role of the Minister of State‟s Office is to:  provide a secretarial function for the Minister of State,  co-ordinate the Minister of State‟s activities,  liaise between the Department and the Minister  co-ordinate with Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government regarding the Minister of State‟s diary  Customer Services both internally and externally The office is headed by the Private Secretary supported by 2 C.O. 7.23.2 Services Provided The Office delivers a service to the public through written correspondence, fax, email and phone 7.23.3 Information Available Contact: Helen Murphy Minister of State‟s Office, 43-49 Mespil Road Dublin 4 Tel: (01) 647 3042 Fax: (01) 647 3151 Email: hmurphy@pobail.ie 7.23.4 Classes of Records  Representations  Correspondence  Invitations  Office Administration - 44 -