Annual Implementation Report 2007 by Derville Brennan

Southern and Eastern Regional Operational Programme 2007 - 2013 Annual Implementation Report 2007

Objective concerned

Regional Competitiveness Employment Objective (Objective 2) Eligible area concerned Southern & Eastern NUTS 11 Region (refer figure 1) Programming Period 2007-2013 Programme number (CCI no.) CCI number 2997IE162PO002 Programme Title Southern & Eastern Regional Operational Programme Reporting Year 2007 Date of approval of annual report by the monitoring 26.06.08 committee

INDEX Southern and Eastern Regional Operational Programme Annual Implementation Report for 2007 1 Introduction 1.1Introduction 1.2Background 1.3 Financial Plan of the Operational Programme 1.4 Monitoring Committee Approval 2. Overview of the Implementation of the Operational Programme 2.1 Achievement and analysis of the progress 2.2 Compliance with Community Law 2.3 Significant problems encountered and measures taken to overcome them 2.4 Changes in the context of the Operational Programme Implementation 2.5 Substantial modification under Article 57 of regulation (EC) No. 1083/2006 2.6 Complementarity with other instruments 2.7 Monitoring and Data Collection Arrangements 3. Implementation by Priority 3.1 Priority 1 Innovation and the Knowledge Economy 3.2 Priority 2 Environment and Accessibility 3.3 Priority 3 Sustainable Urban Development 3.4 Technical Assistance Priority 3.5 Theme Progress 3.6 Qualitative Analysis 3.7 Demonstration of the effects of the Promotion of Equal Opportunities 3.8 Share of the priority allocations used in accordance with Article 34 (2) 4 ESF Programmes: Coherence and Concentration 5. ERDF/CF Programmes: Major Projects 6. Technical Assistance 7. Information and Publicity 8. Financial Drawdown 9. Context Indicators Annex 1 Membership of Monitoring Committee Annex 11 Microenterprise Case Study

5 5 5 6 7 7 7 26 26 26 31 31 31 33 33 35 38 40 41 85 85 85 86 87 88 90 99 100 101 103

Figure 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Map of S&E Region

Introduction to the Southern and Eastern Regional Operational Programme

1.1 Introduction This is the first Annual Implementation Report for the Southern & Eastern Regional Operational Programme for 2007-2013. It reports on the progress achieved under the OP for the year 2007. This is the first annual implementation report on the implementation of the Southern & Eastern Regional Operational Programme 2007 2013. The report complies with Article 67 of Regulation 1083/2006 which requires the Managing Authority to submit an Annual Implementation Report within six months of the end of each full calendar year of implementation. This report relates to the period 1st January 2007 to 31st December 2007. The aim of the annual report is to provide a comprehensive overview of the implementation of the OP. 1.2 Background The new round of EU Structural and Cohesion funding covers the period 2007-2013. Under Article 6 of the General Regulation (EC) 1083/20061, regions not covered by the Convergence Objective will be eligible for assistance under the Competitiveness and Employment Objective. This will include the Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly (S&E) NUTS II region which qualified as a phasing-in under the transitional arrangements as a previous Objective One region which has a per capita GDP above 75% of the EU25 average. It is expected that the S&E Region will receive c. €292m in total structural funding over the period, of which 50% (c. €146m) will be ERDF funding.. The Irish Government, as set out in the National Strategic Reference Framework2 (NSRF) has decided that Cohesion policy will be delivered through separate Regional Operational Programmes for the BMW and the Southern and Eastern regions and a national ESF Operational Programme. The Regional Operational Programmes are part-funded by the ERDF. The S&E Regional Assembly has been designated by the Government to be the Managing Authority for the S&E Regional Operational Programme and is responsible for its preparation and delivery. Given the agreed objectives of Cohesion policy, Structural Funds are being concentrated on implementing community policies, namely the renewed Lisbon Agenda3 and the Göteborg Declaration4. The specific focus is on innovation and the knowledge economy, environment and risk minimisation, accessibility to services of general interest (broadband, transport infrastructure), increasing adaptability of workers and enterprises, enhancing access to employment, and social inclusion measures. This Operational Programme was designed to set out a development strategy, including a coherent set of priorities to meet the strategic objectives that have been set for the Regional Operational Programme.

European Commission (2006) Council Regulation (EC) 1083/2006 of 11th July , 2006 laying down general provisions on the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund and the Cohesion Fund and repealing Regulation (EC) 1260/1999. http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/sources/docoffic/official/regulation/pdf/2007/feder/ce_108 3(2006)_en.pdf 2 Government of Ireland (2007) National Strategic Reference Framework for Ireland, 2007-13 3 European Commission (2005) Common Actions for Growth and Employment – the Community Lisbon Programme http://ec.europa.eu/growthandjobs/pdf/COM20_330_en.pdf 4 European Commission (2001) A sustainable Europe for a better World: A European Strategy for Sustainable Development – Proposal to the Gothenburg European Council http://europa.eu.int/eur-lex/en/com/cnc/2001/com2001_0264en01.pdf 5

1.3 Financial Plan of the Operational Programme Communit y Funding (a)

National counterpart (b) (= (c) + (d))

Indicative breakdown of the national counterpart

National Public funding ( c ) Priorities

National private funding (d) €

Total funding (e) = (a)+(b)

For Information

EIB contributi ons

€

Innovation and the Knowledge Economy

96,000,000

144,000,000

240,000,000

Environment and Accessibility

26,000,000

39,000,000

Sustainable Urban Development

20,000,000

30,000,000

Technical Assistance

4,603,534

7,396,466

Total

146,603,534

220,396,466

CoFinanci ng rate (f) = (a)/(e)

€

40%

37,000,000

65,000,000

40%

150,000,000

50,000,000

40%

127,000,000

7,396,466

12,000,000

38%

220,396,466

367,000,000

40%

314,000,000

Including national private funding where priority axes are expressed in public costs

€

Other funding5

1.4 Monitoring Committee Approval Article 67(1) of regulation 1083/2006 requires that the Managing Authority shall send an Annual Implementation Report to the Commission by 30th June each year. At the Monitoring Committee meeting of 29th April 2008, the Committee agreed that the report would be approved by written procedure. The report was circulated to the members for approval by written procedure on 19th June 2008 and adopted on 26th June. 2. Overview of the Implementation of the Operational Programme 2.1 Achievement and analysis of the progress 2.1.1 Introduction The main focus of the Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly during 2007 was the development and early implementation of the S&E Regional Operational Programme 2007-13. This involved an extensive public consultation process, culminating in the submission of the draft Operational Programme in March 2007 and its adoption on the 16th October 2007, as well as a number of administrative processes to prepare for the Implementation of the Operational Programme and to comply fully with the regulations governing the implementation of EU co-financed programmes. 2.1.2 Programme Preparation Following the preparation of the draft programme at the end of 2006, the Managing Authority advertised the availability of the programme documents on the Managing Authority's website. In addition, the Managing Authority circulated draft copies of the draft Operational Programme and Environmental Report, prepared in compliance with the SEA Directive, to the following on January 12th 2007: • All relevant Departments and Intermediary Bodies; • Higher Education Institutions in the S&E Region; • Elected members of the S&E Regional Assembly; • S&E Regional OP Monitoring Committee, including social partner representatives and Advisors; • Heads of Public Bodies represented on the Operational Committee of the S&E Regional Assembly; • Environmental Authorities specified in the SEA legislation; • Regional Authorities; • Local Authorities; • Department of Finance and its Central Expenditure Evaluation Unit; • Other Managing Authorities; and • Horizontal Interests: Gender, Equality, Social Inclusion. Arising from the public consultation process the Managing Authority received submissions from 23 organisations. Submissions received from Public Consultation Submissions were received by the Managing Authority from the following organizations during the programme development and on the Draft S&E Regional OP 2007-13: Equality Authority Association of County and City Enterprise Higher Education Authority Boards Office for Social Inclusion Combat Poverty Agency Sustainable Energy Ireland Comhar – Sustainable Development Cork City Council Council Department of Agriculture and Food Dublin Regional Authority Department of Communications, Marine Mid West Regional Authority and Natural Resources South East Regional Authority Department of Enterprise, Trade and URBAN – Ballyfermot Employment Kildare County Council Department of Environment, Heritage and Combat Poverty Agency Local Government CODEMA European Anti-Poverty Network South Tipperary County Council

Enterprise Ireland

Irish Rural Link

The final Operational Programme was submitted to the European Commission on March 6th, 2007, within the statutory deadline. The following are the priorities and themes included in the OP: Priority 1: Innovation and the Knowledge Economy Theme 1 – Development of Regions RTDI Capacity Sub – Theme 1: Applied Research Enhancement (ARE Sub – Theme 2: Commercialisation Fund Sub – Theme 3: Incubation Centre Development Sub –Theme 4: Building the Research Capacity & Capability within Higher Education Institutions Theme 2 – Entrepreneurship in Micro-enterprises Theme 3 – Experimental Innovation Actions Priority 2: Environment and Accessibility Theme 1 – Environment & Risk Prevention Sub – Theme 1: Rural Water Source Protection Sub – Theme 2: Village Sewerage System Theme 2 – Renewable Energy Sub – Theme 1: Renewable Energy Deployment - CHP & Bioheat (ReHeat) Programme Sub – Theme 2: Stimulating energy efficiency first (Energy for Business Programme) Sub – Theme 3: Renewable Energy Deployment – Renewable Energy R, D&D Programme Sub – Theme 4: Integration and Innovation – Sustainable Development Zones Theme 3 – Information & Communications Technology Accessibility / Broadband Provision and Demand Stimulation Priority 3: Sustainable Urban Development Theme 1 – Gateway and Hub Challenge Funds Sub – Theme 1: Urban Regeneration Sub – Theme 2: Public Transport Sub – Theme 3: Sports and Cultural Facilities Priority 4: Technical Assistance Theme 1 – Technical Assistance 2.1.3 Ex Ante Evaluation An ex ante evaluation of this OP was conducted by FGS Consulting in parallel with the drafting and finalisation of the OP between July 2006 and February 2007. The overall aim of the evaluation was to improve the quality, effectiveness and consistency of the Structural Funds assistance and the implementation of the OP. The ex ante evaluation addressed the following: • Appraisal of socio-economic analysis and relevance of the draft programme; • Evaluation of the rationale of the draft programme and its consistency;

•

Appraisal of coherence of the strategy with regional and national priorities and Community Strategic Guidelines; • Evaluation of expected results and impacts; and • Appraisal of proposed implementation and monitoring systems. The overall assessment of the draft OP was positive, in terms of its logical flow running from regional analysis to strategy to Priorities and to Implementation and its compliance with the EU General Regulation 2006 Article 36, national policies, regional priorities and needs, geographic concentration and compliance with environment and equality requirements. It also pointed out that there is a clear public intervention rationale for investment areas. The report did point out that given the strategic nature of OP and even though equality between men and women and non-discrimination issues have been appropriately taken into account, there is some scope to improve this further and this will need to be factored into future implementation, monitoring and evaluation arrangements as appropriate. The indicators identified (and their causality) are broadly appropriate, nevertheless, the report did suggest a number of additional indicators to expand the number and coverage of indicators. The report also noted that overall the proposals for implementation systems are in line with the Commission’s requirements and the details provided in relation to implementing provisions for managing, monitoring and evaluating the programme are appropriate. The ex ante evaluation made 23 specific recommendations in relation to OP Appraisal and Analysis , Objectives and Internal Coherence, Policy and Implementation Risks, External Coherence, Expected Results and Impacts and Implementation Systems all of which were taken on board by the MA. 2.1.4 Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive 2001/41/EC which provides for the assessment of the effects of certain plans and programmes on the environment (“SEA Directive”) came into force in Ireland on 21st July 2004. The Directive applies to plans and programmes for which the first formal preparatory action is taken on or after 21 July 2004. The main objective of the SEA Directive is to “provide for a high level of protection for the environment and to contribute to the integration of environmental considerations into the preparation and adoption of plans and programmes with a view to promoting sustainable development.” The authority responsible for preparing the plan or programme is usually responsible for undertaking the SEA. Regarding the S&E OP, the relevant Irish Regulation is European Communities (Environmental Assessment Of Certain Plans And Programmes) Regulations (S.I. 435 of 2004). SEA Screening This was the first part of the SEA process where the need for SEA preparation of an Environmental Report is determined. The requirement for the preparation for such a Report was based on the potential for significant effects on the environment. A screening report was prepared by the S&E Assembly and, following consultation with the designated environmental authorities, it was decided to prepare an Environmental Report. Scoping Report An SEA Scoping Report was prepared in October 2006 to consider what the potential environmental effects of the OP would be and to identify the significant effects. A matrix-based approach was used and a scoping meeting was held with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Environmental Report An Environmental Report was prepared in January 2007 which outlined the significant effects on the environment which may arise as a result of the S&E OP. The information provided in the Environmental Report meets the requirements of Schedule 2 of S.I. 435 of 2004. This report was published on 5 January 2007 and made available along with draft Operational Programme to the organisations listed earlier. The report concluded that the S&E OP will have positive or at worst neutral effect on the environment. SEA Statement An SEA Statement was prepared, following the adoption of the Operational Programme. This statement summarised how the environmental considerations and the Environmental Report were factored into the Operational Programme and it also summarised how the public consultation stage of the SEA process was conducted. The availability of the SEA Statement was advertised in the national press and was also made available for public viewing at the S&E Regional Assembly offices and online at www.seregassembly.ie.

2.1.5 Negotiations with European Commission The Managing Authority took part in a series of negotiation meetings with the European Commission following the submission of the Operational Programme. Issues addressed during the negotiations included the earmarking of expenditure in accordance with the Lisbon competitiveness agenda, demarcation of expenditure between the Regional OPs and the Rural Development programme, financial profile of the OP and sustainable development. Arising from these meetings a revised Operational Programme was submitted and this was formally adopted on October 16th with following financial allocations: Total funding allocated to these priorities: Priority

Total Allocation €

Innovation & Knowledge Economy

277m

Environment & Accessibility

215m

Sustainable Urban Development

177m

Technical Assistance

12m

Total

681m

The Operational Programme was signed in Brussels by Commissioner Danuta Hubner and the Leas Cathaoirleach of the Regional Assembly Cllr. James Holloway, on December 12th. This was attended by Minister for European Affairs, Dick Roche, TD. 2.1.6 Preparation of Implementation Plans The Managing Authority prepared a detailed guidance document on the content of the Implementation Plans in August 2007. Following consultation with the Department of Finance and the Horizontal Units (see annex 4), the Implementation Plan Guidance document was issued to all Intermediary Bodies on 6th and 7th September 2007. This was based on the format of the Programme Complement document that was used for the previous Operational Programme, with some specific changes: • measure level financial tables not required; • role of Intermediary Body and Public Beneficiary Body included; and • flowchart for expenditure declarations, verifications and audits inserted. Discussions have been on-going with Departments and Agencies regarding the Implementation Plans. . 2.1.7 Financial Management and Control Following the adoption of the Operational Programme on October 16th, 2007 the focus of financial management and control actions was placed on the administrative processes to prepare for the implementation of the Operational Programme and to comply fully with the regulations governing the implementation of EU co-financed programmes. Advance Payment During 2007, no expenditure declarations were submitted to the Managing Authority and no certified claims were submitted by the Certifying Authority to the EU. A 2% advance of €2,932,070.68 was paid in November 2007 by the EU to the Certifying Authority. Systems Descriptions Initial work was undertaken by the Managing Authority in consultation with the Certifying Authority and ERDF Financial Control Unit to prepare a description of the systems in place at Managing Authority level and to prepare a procedures manual.

A brief description of the financial management and control arrangements, including arrangements for the verification of expenditure, payments to beneficiaries and maintenance of an adequate audit trail was included in each of the draft Implementation Plans prepared by each Intermediary Body in 2007. A request was issued to each Intermediary Body in March 2008 to prepare a systems description in accordance with Article 22 of the Implementation regulation and to prepare a procedures manual. A compliance check on the Systems and Procedures in place at Certifying Authority, managing Authority and Intermediary Body level will be conducted by the ERDF Financial Control Unit in 2008. Following the adoption of the Operational Programme on October 16th, 2007 the focus of financial management and control actions was placed on the administrative processes to prepare for the implementation of the Operational Programme and to comply fully with the regulations governing the implementation of EU co-financed programmes. Financial Management and Control Circular The Managing Authority has been consulted by the Department of Finance on the content of the circular on EU Financial Management and Control arrangements which will be issued in mid 2008. This circular will replaces Circular 34/2001 which applied for the 2000-06 programming period. The Circular will set out inter alia: • Overall financial management and control arrangements • Designated authorities • The responsibilities of each level in the cascade • Procedures for the declaration and certification of EU co-financed activities • Compliance with EU laws in respect of public procurement and state aids • Information and Publicity • Financial Corrections • Treatment of Irregularities • Reporting Arrangements • Maintenance of an adequate audit trail • Standard forms for declarations of expenditure Administrative Agreements Article 59 of the General Regulation 1083/2006, requires that the mutual relations between the authorities responsible for EU co-financed activities should be laid down in full accordance with the institutional, legal and financial systems of the Member State concerned. Article 12 of the Implementation Regulation (1828/2006) requires that “…where one or more tasks of a managing authority or certifying authority are performed by an intermediary body, the relevant arrangements shall be formally recorded in writing”. In accordance with these requirements the S&E Regional Assembly, in consultation with the BMW Assembly and the Department of Finance has prepared a draft Administrative Agreement, which will be issued to each Intermediary Body in 2008. These agreements will set out, inter alia, the responsibilities of each Intermediate Body in respect of: • Implementation of activities in accordance with the approved OP and Implementation Plan; • Respective roles of the Managing Authority and Intermediary Body and the functions delegated to the Intermediary Body; • Provision of descriptions of the financial management and control systems in place and the maintenance of an up-to –date procedures manual; • Provision on an annual basis an estimate of expenditure to allow effective monitoring of the Financial Plans and meeting n+2 targets; • Mechanisms for the verification of expenditure claims by beneficiaries including agreed arrangements for onthe-spot checks and, where appropriate, agreed sampling levels; • Certification of expenditure in accordance with the provisions of the Department of Finance Circular including the provision of all necessary information on the procedures and verifications carried out in relation to expenditure for the purpose of certification; • Arrangements for the reporting of irregularities and the treatment of negative adjustments; • Maintenance of an adequate audit trail and arrangements for retention of documentation • Audit Arrangements, including facilitating verification audits by the ERDF FCU, and facilitating systems audits at Intermediary body level, co-ordinated by the ERDF FCU;

• • • • • •

Arrangements for reporting on financial and physical progress on the implementation of the Theme/Subtheme to the Monitoring Committee; Facilitating the conduct of evaluations; Compliance with EU and national rules in respect of public procurement and EU state aid rules; Notification of major projects; Ensuring compliance with the EU and NSRF Information and Publicity requirements and publication of a beneficiary list; and Co-operation with Managing Authorities and Certifying Authority in relation to closure arrangements.

National Eligibility Rules Article 56(4) of the General Regulation requires that rules on the eligibility of expenditure be laid down at national level. Accordingly, the ERDF and ESF Certifying Authorities in conjunction with the Managing Authorities and the ERDF and ESF Financial Control Units have initiated the process of preparing a National Eligibility Rules document that will set out inter alia, national rules in respect of: • Eligibility of expenditure paid out • Location and timing of expenditure • Proof of expenditure • Purchase of Assets • Overlapping of Funds/aid schemes • Indirect Costs(Overheads) • Financial Charges • VAT • Leasing Costs • Technical Assistance • Purchase of Second Hand Equipment • Refundable Aid • In-kind costs and contributions • Purchase of land • Purchase of Real Estate (Buildings) The finalised eligibility rules will be issued to the Intermediary Bodies when finalised. IT System The EU Regulations provide that the Member States shall have reliable accounting, monitoring and financial reporting systems in computerised form and systems and procedures to ensure an adequate audit trail. The Irish Authorities have agreed that an appropriate option to meet the Commission Requirements was to establish a centralised database with web access for all bodies with the functionality to create the B1, B2 and B3 declaration forms and subsequently propose them to the body immediately above them in the cascade for approval. The system will also generate a payment claim to the Commission. The proposed IT System will be used by the all the actors in the financial management and control cascade system in accordance with the shared management responsibilities. To comply with this requirement, the Department of Finance, following consultation with an Implementation Group, which included the Managing Authorities, issued a project specification and request for tender for the services of IT specialists to develop a system to meet the requirements. The tender process is complete and a contract is in place with the successful tenderer. The system should be ready for testing during the summer of 2008. Guidance Seminars The Managing Authority will organise a series of Guidance Seminars for Intermediary and Public Beneficiary Bodies during 2008 in order to introduce and provide guidance on the financial management and control arrangements for the 2007-13 period, including the systems description, national eligibility rules, IT system for certification, administrative agreements, expenditure verification arrangements, audit arrangements and treatment of irregularities.

These seminars will be organised in conjunction with the BMW Regional Assembly, Certifying Authority and Audit Authority (as appropriate). 2.1.8. Information on the Physical Progress of the Operational Programme Information on the physical progress of the Operational Programme is presented below and by priority in section 3 of this report. Physical Indicators are at priority level for this Operational Programme. An update of the context indicators that were included in the Operational Programme is included under section 9. The main focus in 2007 was on the finalisation and the negotiation of the OP and on putting in place the necessary implementation and financial management and control arrangements. Implementation has commenced on aspects of three of the four priorities. 2.1.9 The Operational Environment Growth in GDP was 5.3 % in 2007 compared with growth of 5.7% in 2006. GNP (which excludes repatriated income abroad such as the profits of foreign-owned companies) grew by 4.5% in 2007 compared with growth of 6.5% in 2006. Consumer spending remains buoyant with growth of 5.4% in 2007. An Exchequer deficit of €1,619 million was recorded in 2007 compared with a surplus of €2,265 million in 2006. Table: Southern &Eastern Region Socio-economic indicators Year State Population (000’s) 2006 4,239.8 Employment (000’s) 2007 2,138,900 Unemployment rate 2006 4.4 Disposable income per capita (state = 100) 2005 100 GVA per person (state = 100) 2005 100

S&E 2,522.1 1582.0 4.3 103.0 110.8

BMW 1,717.7 556.9 4.6 91.7 70.30

The total number of persons in the labour force now stands at 2,239,900, an increase of 77,500 or 3.6% over the year. This compares to annual labour force growth of 3.2% in the previous quarter and 4.1% in the fourth quarter of 2006. The labour force now accounts for 63.9% of all persons aged 15 and over compared with 63.3% a year earlier. There were 2,138,900 persons in employment in the fourth quarter of 2007, representing an increase of 66,800 or 3.2% in the year. This compares to an annual growth rate of 3.3% in the previous quarter and to a rate of 4.4% in the fourth quarter of 2006. The increase of 45,800 (+5.2%) in female employment represented almost 69% of the total increase in employment, with make employment increasing by 21,000 (+1.8%). Part-time employment increased by 36,500 over the year representing over half of the overall growth in employment. The number of self employed persons increased by 39,100 to 361,600 in the year representing almost 60% of the annual increase in employment Self employed males dominated the increase rising by 28,300 in the year while self employed females increased by 10,900. There were 101,000 persons unemployed in the fourth quarter of 2007 representing an increase of 10,700 in the year. Almost all of the growth in unemployment was attributable to an increase in short-term unemployment, of which 7,800 was attributable to males and 2,200 to females. In the Construction sector, for the first quarter of 2007, employment fell by 5,600 over the year compared with an annual increase of 30,300 in the same quarter of 2006. Employment grew by 26,500 (+4.9%) in the Border, Midland and Western region and by 40,300 (+2.6%) in the Southern and Eastern region in the year to the fourth quarter of 2007. There were increases of 8,100 and 2,600 in the numbers of unemployed in the Southern and Eastern region and the Border, Midland and Western region respectively. The participation rate in the Border, Midland and Western region increased from 61.3% to 62.7% between the fourth quarters of 2006 and 2007 while the rate in the Southern and Eastern region increased from 64.0% to 64.3% over the same period. At NUTSIII level employment grew in all regions with the Mid-East (+6.4%) and Midland (+5.9) showing the highest employment growth rates over the year.

In terms of regional economic growth performance, the most recently published data on Regional GVA (Gross Value Added) and Disposable Incomes is for 2005. Regional GVA per person in the Southern and Eastern Region was €38,203 in 2005 compared with €36,075 in 2004, representing an annual increase of 5.9%. The equivalent level in the BMW in 2005 was €24,230. Within the Southern and Eastern region, the NUTS III region with the lowest GVA per person in 2005 was the South-East (€25,504) while the highest rate was in Dublin (€48,580). When looking at disposable incomes per head (a better measure of regional wealth and spending power than GVA), Dublin and the Mid-East Regions had the highest rates in 2005. For the Southern and Eastern Region as a whole, disposable income per head in 2005 was €20,774 compared to €18,494 for the Border Midland and Western Region. 2.1.9.1 National Reform Programme Following the midterm review of the Lisbon Agenda a revised 3 year strategy focusing on growth and jobs was launched at the European Council in March 2005. As part of this new approach Member States agreed to draw up National Reform Programmes (NRPs) based on an Integrated Guidelines Package (incorporating macroeconomic, microeconomic and employment guidelines). In drawing up their NRP Member States focus on policies appropriate to their own specific needs and circumstances. The Irish NRP sets out a range of actions to achieve economic and employment growth over the 2005-2008 period. The key issues outlined in the NRP are competitiveness, research and development, lifelong learning and more and better jobs. The NRP identifies three broad policy areas: macroeconomic policy, microeconomic policy and employment policy. In addressing the Lisbon goals, the National Reform Programme states that global markets and global competition characterise the environment within which the Irish economy must prosper and compete as part of the EU of 27 Member States. Within the NRP, the need to maintain competitiveness and improve productivity is paramount. Ireland is committed to sustaining linkages between economic performance and social policy and a fair, just and inclusive society. The National Reform Programme makes specific commitments in the areas of: • R&D investment targets up to 2013, • Encouraging greater levels of innovation and entrepreneurship, across the enterprise sector, with particular focus on SMEs, and • Improving labour supply through intensified measures to address specific target groups in the inactive population. A Progress Report on the NRP submitted in October 2006 reconfirmed the Irish Government’s commitment, working with the Social Partners, to the pursuit of improved quality of life and living standards for all and its recognition of the interdependence of social equity and sustainable development with economic growth and improved employment opportunities. The National Reform Programme recognises that there are several sectors performing poorly in terms of competitiveness due to differing levels of productivity with evident productivity gaps in those sectors less exposed to international competition. As regards the labour market, the focus is on two major challenges in particular: • Ensuring an adequate labour supply by facilitating greater participation in the workforce by the unemployed, inactive and economic migrants; • Maintaining a strong focus on education and training, including lifelong learning. The NRP was submitted to the European Commission in October 2005 and the Commission's assessment of Member States' NRPs was contained in the first Annual Progress Report, published in January 2006. The Commission's view is that the NRP identifies and responds to most of the main challenges facing Ireland and takes an integrated and ambitious approach to further reinforcing the factors which have underpinned Ireland's recent economic success. The emphasis on policies to integrate inactive people into the labour market, increase female participation and address skills development is strongly endorsed by the Commission. Research and Development and Pensions Coverage are identified as key areas for continued development.

2.1.9.2 Social Inclusion Aspects National Action Plan for Social Inclusion The Irish Government launched the National Action Plan for Social Inclusion 2007-2016 in February 2007. The Plan identifies a number of high level strategic goals in priority areas in order to achieve the overall objective of reducing consistent poverty. The targeted actions and interventions are designed to mobilise resources to address longstanding and serious social deficits. They focus on: • ensuring children reach their true potential; • supporting working age people and people with disabilities, through activation measures and the provision of services to increase employment and participation; • providing the type of supports that enable older people to maintain a comfortable and high quality standard of living; • building viable and sustainable communities, improving the lives of people living in disadvantaged areas and building social capital. In view of the very substantial progress achieved in enhancing income support over recent years, these goals place a renewed emphasis on services, activation measures and supporting quality employment. The plan recognises the continuing challenges faced by those in work but on low incomes, as well as the vulnerability of those in households without any employment. The overall poverty goal is: • To reduce the number of those experiencing consistent poverty to between 2% and 4% by 2012, with the aim of eliminating consistent poverty by 2016, under the revised definition. The high level goals, as set out in the attached overview, are aimed at: • The provision of targeted preschool education; • Reducing literacy difficulties and tackling early school leaving; • Maintaining the combined value of child income support measures at 33%-35% of the minimum adult social welfare payment rate; • Introducing an active case management approach to support those on long-term social welfare into education, training and employment, with an overall aim of reducing by 20% the number of those whose total income is derived from long-term social welfare; • Maintaining the relative value of the lowest social welfare rate; • Continuing to increase investment in community care services for older people; • Maintaining, and if possible enhancing, the value of the State Pension; • Increasing the employment and participation of people with disabilities; • Delivering increased housing output to meet the accommodation needs of some 60,000 new households, the homeless, Travellers, older people and people with disabilities; • Developing 500 primary care teams to improve access to services in the community, with particular emphasis on meeting the needs of holders of medical cards; • Developing a strategy aimed at achieving the integration of newcomers in Irish society. In addition to the high level goals, there are some 154 targeted actions and interventions set out in the Plan designed to ensure that a decisive impact is made on poverty. The National Report for Ireland on Strategies for Social Protection and Social Inclusion 2006-2008 was published in September 2006. This outlines Ireland’s key objectives and targets over the 2006-2008 period and includes the following overarching objectives:

• • •

To promote social cohesion, equality between men and women and equal opportunities for all through adequate accessible, financially sustainable, adaptable and efficient social protection systems and social inclusion policies; To promote effective and mutual interaction between the Lisbon objectives of greater economic growth, more and better jobs and greater social cohesion, and with the EU’s Sustainable Development Strategy; and To promote good governance, transparency and the involvement of stakeholders in the design, implementation and monitoring of policy.

2.1.10 Operational Programme Priority Level Indicators Table Priority 1: Innovation and the Knowledge Economy Class Indicator Baseline Output Result Output

No. of Incubation Centres Total employed in Incubation Centres No. of additional researchers employed in the region’s HEIs No. of training days provided to SMEs No. of micro-enterprises supported No. of recipients of training in microenterprises theme

Outturn to 31 December 2007 0 0

8 284

11 434

560

74,294

249,294

26,932.5

4,029

8,029 141,159 Of which: Male: 56,184 Female: 84,275 Other: 700

538

57,159 Result No. of jobs created in microenterprises theme No. of enterprises created in incubation centres

Final target

14,891

24,858

32,558

1750

108

Priority 2: Environment and Accessibility Class Output

Result Output Result Output Result

Indicator No. of rural water source protection projects supported No. of STEDS projects supported Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) Reduction in protected sources Population equivalent served by STEDS schemes No. of energy schemes introduced No. of energy efficient/renewable energy buildings supported No. of initiatives to enable broadband infrastructure and service provision Additional businesses with broadband available

Baseline

Final target

Outturn to 31 December 2007

Not applicable

75%

Not applicable

4,200

Not applicable

900

23,125

Priority 3: Sustainable Urban Development Class

Output

Indicator

Baseline

No. of Integrated growth centre strategies approved No. of public transport projects supported Increased public transport usage in the Gateways

Final target

Outturn to 31 December 2007

To be determined

Priority 4: Technical Assistance Class Output

Result

Indicator

Baseline

Number of Monitoring Committee Meetings held Number of Evaluations & Studies conducted Verification Audits & Closure audits Number of annual publicity events % Achievement of Physical and Financial Targets

Final target

Outturn to 31 December 2007

0 0

Annual 7

0 0

100%

Financial Information Expenditure 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2007 Priority Theme 1

Total Expenditure Community * Contribution 11,721,066.33 4,688,426.53

Entrepreneurship in microenterprises Building the Research Capacity & Capability within Higher Education Institutions 1 Programme for Research in Third 87,842,196.00 35,136,878.40 Level Institutions 4 Technical Assistance 36,346.72 13,811.75 Total 99,599,609.05 39,839,116.70 * Expenditure reported incurred by 1st level public body but not declared to Managing Authority for proposal to the Certifying Authority

Priority Axes by source of funding â&#x201A;Ź

Priority Axis 1 ERDF Of which ESF type expenditure Of which ERDF type expenditure Priority Axis 2 ERDF Of which ESF type expenditure Of which ERDF type expenditure Priority Axis 3 ERDF Of which ESF type expenditure Of which ERDF type expenditure Priority Axis 4 ERDF Of which ESF type expenditure Of which ERDF type expenditure Grand Total

Expenditure paid out by the beneficiaries included in payment claims sent to the managing authority6

Corresponding Public contribution

Private Expenditure

Expenditure paid by the body responsible for making payments to the beneficiaries

Total payments received from the Commission

99,563,262.33

36,346.72

99,599,609.05

0 2,932,070.68*

Total in transitional regions in the grand total Total in non-transitional regions in the grand total ESF type expenditure in the grand total where the Operational Programme is co-financed by the ERDF

99,599,609.05

* 2 % advance paid out by the Commission in November 2007

No payment claims were submitted to the Managing Authority to date

2.1.11 Information about the breakdown of use of the funds Cumulative breakdown of allocations of the Community contribution by category (Part C of Annex 11 of the Implementing Regulation) It is not possible to be definitive about expenditure reported but to date but not yet certified to the Commission. Information on the cumulative breakdown of allocations of the Community contribution by category as set out in Annex 11 of the Implementing Regulation will be captured by the IT system which is currently under construction. A preliminary indication of the categorisation of priority codes is provided below.

1 1

01 & 02**** 08

Code Dimension 2 Form of finance 01 01 & 02**

Priority Code Dimension 1

Code Dimension 4 Economic Activity

Code Dimension 3 Territory 01 01/05***

Code Dimension 5 Location

Community Contribution*

IE02 IE02

35,136,878.40 4,688,426.53*

IE02 Total

13,811.75 39,839,116.70

*Reported as expended not certified to the Commission ** Proportion of repayable aid not yet known, will be captured on IT system *** Territorial Dimension will be captured on the IT system ****The breakdown of expenditure will be captured on the IT System 2.1.12 Assistance by target groups and areas Expenditure was reported for two themes for 2007, the Priority 1 Entrepreneurship in Microenterprises theme and the Technical Assistance theme. The former specifically targets small businesses in the region and the latter is to support the management, evaluation and monitoring of the Regional Operational Programme. 2.1.13 Assistance repaid or re-used There has been no assistance repaid or re-used following cancellations of assistance, as there has been no assistance certified to the Commission. 2.1.14 Qualitative Analysis Implementation commenced on three themes in 2007. Expenditure of â&#x201A;Ź99,599,609.05 is reported to date which represents 15% of the OP total. At this early stage in the Operational Programme it is premature to try to present a meaningful analysis of the progress achieved as only two themes reported expenditure. An additional 5387 enterprises were assisted. This directly contributes to the Lisbon strategy of increasing adaptability of enterprises. The Microenterprise theme continues to build on the capacity developed in the 2000-2006 OP with respect to the promotion of equal opportunity between men & women. 2.1.15 Contribution to the Lisbon Targets The conclusions reached at the European Council meeting held in Lisbon in 2000 included a commitment to make the European Union the most dynamic and competitive knowledge-based economy in the world, with more and better jobs and greater social inclusion, by 2010. Following a review of the achievement of this goal in 2004, the re-launched Lisbon Agenda placed particular emphasis on growth and jobs. The National Strategic Reference Framework and this Operational Programme reflect the priorities set out in the Irish Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Reform Programme (NRP) 7

When the expenditure is reported through the IT financial management system it will be possible to disaggregate this figure to the correct OP

which was submitted to the EU in October 2005. This brought together a wide range of policies and initiatives, the implementation of which were aimed at sustaining Ireland's strong economic performance and employment growth. The NRP identifies three broad policy areas: macro-economic policy, micro-economic policy and employment policy. In addressing the Lisbon goals, the NRP states that global markets and global competition characterise the environment within which the Irish economy must prosper and compete as part of the EU of 27 Member States. Within the NRP, the need to maintain competitiveness and improve productivity is viewed as paramount. A Progress Report on the NRP submitted in October 2006 re-confirmed the Irish Government's commitment, working with the Social Partners, to the pursuit of improved quality of life and living standards for all and its recognition of the interdependence of social equity and sustainable development with economic growth and improved employment opportunities. The implementation of the development strategy, priority objectives and selected interventions as outlined in this OP will contribute to Ireland meeting its commitments as set out in the National Reform Programme and in accordance with Article 29(1) of the General Regulation, the Annual Report on the implementation of the National Reform Programme will include a concise section on the contribution of the OP to the implementation of the National Reform Programme. The following table sets out the correlation between the priorities in the S&E Regional OP and the Lisbon Agenda Guidelines. Priority

Guideline Reference

Guideline 7 Priority 1: Innovation, ICT and the Knowledge Economy

Guideline 8 Guideline 9 Guideline 15

Priority 2: Environment and Risk Prevention Priority 3: Sustainable Urban Development Priority 4: Technical Assistance

Guideline 11 Guideline 11 n/a

Guideline

Increase and improve investment in research and development, in particular in the private sector, with a view to establishing a European area of knowledge Facilitate all forms of innovation Facilitate the spread and effective use of ICT and build a fully inclusive information society Promote a more entrepreneurial culture and create a supportive environment for SMEs Encourage the sustainable use of resources and strengthen the synergies between environmental protection and growth Encourage the sustainable use of resources and strengthen the synergies between environmental protection and growth n/a

Based on the cumulative breakdown of allocations presented in section 2.1.11, above, it is possible to provide an indication of the achievement of the earmarking targets to date. This is presented in the following table: Priority Priority 1

Categorisation Code 01 & 2 08 85

Reported Expenditure Lisbon earmarking 35,136,878.40 Yes 4,688,426.53 Yes Priority 4 No 13,811.75 Total 99% 39,839,116.70 2.1.15 Promotion of Equal Opportunities and application of the Horizontal Principles

In accordance with Article 16 of Council Regulation (EC) 1083/2006 laying down the general provisions on the ERDF, the Operational Programme sets out information on the steps taken to ensure equality between men and women, the integration of a gender perspective and the prevention of discrimination on the basis of gender, race or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation during the various stages of implementing the Funds and, in particular, in the access to them. The objectives of the Operational Programme will also be pursued within the framework of sustainable development and the promotion of the goal of protecting and improving the appropriate, incorporate mechanisms to promote social inclusion during implementation. Meetings were held with the specialist Horizontal Units in June and July 2007 to preview the treatment of the following horizontal principles: • Environment – Environment Policy Unit, Department of the Environment • Social Inclusion – Office of Social Inclusion and Combat Poverty Agency • Gender Equality – Gender Equality Unit, Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform • Broad Equality – Equality Authority It was agreed that while all operations co-financed had to respect national and EU rules and guidelines in respect of all horizontal issues, the principle of prioritization which was established following the mid-term evaluation of the NDP/CSF in 2004, would apply whereby all themes/sub-themes would be prioritized for at least one and not more than two of the principles which would be most relevant. Each of the horizontal principle units provided specific text which was incorporated into the guidance issued in respect of the Implementation Plans for each relevant theme/sub-theme. In addition, the Managing Authority prepared a generic guidance document on the treatment of horizontal principles which was issued to all Intermediary Bodies. The assessment of the first drafts Implementation Plans that was undertaken at the end of 2007 and in early 2008 included a preliminary assessment of the text provided in respect of the horizontal principles. Revised Implementation Plans received in 2008 were forwarded to the relevant horizontal units for their observations. The Managing Authority will be working closely with horizontal units and with the Intermediate Bodies over the course of the Programme to ensure that the Horizontal Principles are given appropriate recognition. Set out below are the results of the prioritization exercise; the relevant Intermediate Body will be required to report on the horizontal principle for which their Theme/Sub-theme has been selected. Environmental Sustainability

Gender Equality

Priority 1 Applied Research, Incubation, Collaboration Build Research Capacity Micro-enterprise Innovation and Entrepreneurship Experimental Innovative Actions Priority 2

Broad Equality Grounds

Social Inclusion

√

√ √ √

√

Rural Water Source Protection Pilot Village Sewerage Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy I.C.T. Accessibility Priority 3 Urban Regeneration

Public Transport

√ √ √

Urban Renewal Sports and Recreation

√

2.1.17 Partnership Arrangements In accordance with Articles 11 and 32(2) of the general regulation, the Managing Authority prepared the Operational Programme following consultation with national regional and local authorities, representatives of economic and social partners and non-governmental organisations. This built on the well-established institutional arrangements that have been put in place as part the Irish social partnership process, up to and including the current agreement Towards 2016, and which was successfully applied to the previous programming periods. Many of the partners are actively engaged in programme implementation as Intermediary Bodies and beneficiaries of the interventions. This partnership principle is also strongly reflected in the membership of the OP Monitoring Committee, which is set out in Annex XX of this report and will also be reflected in the conduct of Evaluations. Local authorities will be responsible for commissioning rural water source protection and pilot sewerage treatment facilities and for commissioning and coordinating urban regeneration investments 2.2 Compliance with Community Law As set out in the adopted Operational Programme, the S&E Regional Assembly as Managing Authority for the OP is required to ensure that operations financed by the Funds, are in conformity with the provisions of the Treaty, with instruments adopted under it and with Community policies and actions in the field of competition and with procedural and material State aid rules applicable at the point of time when the public support is granted. The Managing Authority will also ensure that the European public procurement directives are complied with, in respect of the award of contracts for projects funded by European funds. During 2007, there were no significant problems encountered related to compliance with Community law in respect of state aids or public procurement, under the Operational Programme. 2.3 Significant problems encountered and measures taken to overcome them No significant problems were encountered during 2007 2.4 Changes in the context of the operational programme implementation (if relevant) This section sets out relevant developments at national level (2.4.1) and at priority level (2.4.2). It also provides a socio-economic overview of the region in 2007 (2.4.3). 2.4.1 Relevant National Policy Developments National Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF) 2007-2013 In July 2007, the European Commission approved Ireland’s National Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF), this sets out in broad terms how Ireland will invest €750m in EU funding over the period 2007-2013. The NSRF outlines the strategy for allocating the available funding through the selected operational programmes. The objective is to provide an overarching structure for each member state that allows for the development of operational programmes and ensures consistency with Community and national policies. Key priorities for the NSRF include: ⇒ Promoting investment in human capital through up-skilling the workforce, increasing participation in the workforce, and activating groups outside the workforce; ⇒ Supporting innovation, knowledge and entrepreneurship in the regions; and ⇒ Strengthening the competitiveness, attractiveness and connectivity of the National Spatial Strategy, through improved access to quality infrastructure and promoting environmental and sustainable development. These will be implemented through three Operational Programmes: 1. Border, Midland and Western Region Operational Programme (ERDF); 2. Southern and Eastern Region Operational Programme (ERDF); and 3. European Social Fund (Employment and Human Resources) Employment and Human Resources Operational Programme.

National Development Plan 2007-13 The National Development Plan (NDP) 2007-2013, launched in Dublin Castle on January 23rd, 2007 is a high level strategic document which sets out within a sustainable economic and budgetary framework indicative seven year investment allocations for the various sectoral areas, totalling almost €184bn. The NDP 2007-2013 sets out the key high level objectives of investment for Ireland in the period 2007-2013 as follows: • Promotion of sustainable economic and budgetary stability; • Promotion of national competitiveness; • Fostering better balance in regional development with a particular focus on assisting all regions to deliver to their maximum potential; • Delivery of economic and social infrastructure in an efficient Value for Money Way which improves the quality of life of our citizens; • Environmental sustainability; • Promotion of social inclusion; and • Development of strong cross-border and all island economic and sectoral co-operation The 2007-2013 NDP will focus on five investment priorities as follows: €bn Investment (Current Prices) Economic Infrastructure Enterprise, Science and Innovation Human Capital Social Infrastructure Social Inclusion Total

54.7 20.0 25.8 33.6 49.6 183.7

The NDP with an emphasis on improving quality of life in a sustainable manner will take account of the National Spatial Strategy, environmental sustainability, the impact on social inclusion, the all-island dimension, value for money considerations and the requirements of the EU Lisbon process. The new NDP in particular seeks to consolidate progress made under previous programmes and address the investment now necessary to maintain national competitiveness within a sustainable economic and budgetary framework. It also sets out the resourcing commitments necessary to achieve policy developments agreed under the Towards 2016 agreement. The NDP sets out a framework for the promotion of regional development with a particular focus on investment in the NSSdesignated gateways. 2.4.2. Relevant Policy Developments at Priority Level Innovation, ICT and the Knowledge Economy In April 2007, Forfás published Promoting Enterprise-Higher Education Relationships which identified key areas which need to be addressed to ensure Ireland remains at the forefront of international trends in research and innovation. It examined the current relationship that exists between higher education institutions and identified potential for further exploitation of this relationship. It found that while there had been some success to date, higher education-enterprise collaboration operates at a very low level in Ireland and that the structures that are in place to encourage and support the process have failed to achieve significant results. The Forfás report published in October 2007, Towards Developing an Entrepreneurship Policy of Ireland sets out a blueprint to drive entrepreneurship in Ireland. Following on from the Small Business Forum recommendation that the Government should formally adopt a national entrepreneurship policy, Forfás were tasked with drawing up an entrepreneurship policy statement. The intention is to develop a blueprint to drive entrepreneurship in a similar

manner to which characterised the drive to attract foreign direct investment to Ireland. This report focuses on developing entrepreneurial activity in Ireland by building on Ireland’s strengths and providing for a mechanism to reduce barriers to entrepreneurship on an ongoing basis. It identifies key areas for development relating to culture, education and entrepreneurship amongst women and immigrants. A vision for an entrepreneurial society is established and measures to further improve the environment for entrepreneurship are outlined. The report sets out an approach to implement the development of an entrepreneurship for Ireland, the finalisation of this policy will have an impact on the regions as it attempts to foster a culture of entrepreneurship throughout Ireland. Ireland recorded the fourth highest growth in terms of new broadband fixed lines per 100 population in the EU in the period January 2007 to January 2008, however significant gaps persist in terms of broadband availability between urban and rural areas across Ireland. The European Commission’s Progress Report on the Single European Communications Market 2007 found that the DSL coverage in terms of population in rural areas is 64% compared to the DSL national average of 86%. In August 2007, funding was awarded under Cycle 4 (2007-2011) of the Programme for Research in Third Level Institutions (PRTLI) this represented an investment of €230m in research infrastructures and research programmes for third level institutions in Ireland. Environment and Risk Prevention Under the Kyoto Protocol Ireland agreed to a target of limiting its greenhouse gas emissions to 13% above 1990 levels by the first commitment period 2008-2012 as part of its contribution to the overall EU target. Ireland ratified the Kyoto Protocol on the 31 May 2002, along with the EU and all other Member States, and is internationally legally bound to meet the greenhouse gas emissions reduction target. In March 2007 the Government launched Ireland’s National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2013 which sets out the strategy to meet these Kyoto commitments by providing a framework for action to reduce Ireland's greenhouse gas emissions Some of the key targets outlined in the strategy include: - 15% of electricity to be generated from renewable sources from 2010 and 33% by 2020 - Biomass to contribute up to 30% of energy inputs from at peat stations by 2015 - 33% energy savings across the public sector by 2020 The Environmental Protection Agency report, The Quality of Drinking Water in Ireland found that the S&E Region’s overall level of compliance was 97.5% in 2006 based on a point sampling of drinking water. This represents an improvement on the 2004 figure which found that the region was 96.4% compliant. Sustainable Urban Development The government announced in the NDP 2007-2013 the provision of a Gateway Innovation Fund (GIF) as a strategic target intervention to stimulate the growth and development of the 9 gateway cities and towns identified under the National Spatial Strategy 2002-2020. The GIF will operate with an exchequer provision of €300 million over three years 2008-2010 under the management of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The GIF funded projects will be joined-up strategies at gateway level that will provide a catalyst for the particular gateway and its wider regions. The Transport 21 investment package was announced in May 2006. From 2006 to 2015, capital investment in the Irish transport system will take place under the framework of Transport 21. It is designed to resolve the problems of backlogs in previous capital investments, while at the same time meeting expected growth in transport demand. The aims of Transport 21 are to: • Increase accessibility; • Ensure sustainability; • Expand capacity; • Increase use; and • Enhance quality.

A total national investment package of €34.4 bn has been allotted over the 10 year period, providing the necessary funding to: • Complete the development of the inter-urban motorway network by 2010; • Bring about improvements in the rest of the national road network, focusing particularly on the balanced regional development objectives of the National Spatial Strategy and on the needs identified in the National Roads Needs Study; • Complete the safety programme on the national rail network; • Bring about a radical improvement in the level and quality of rail services, based on the policy framework provided by the Strategic Rail Review; • Improve regional and rural public transport services; • Fund essential capital works at the six existing regional airports; • Address accessibility for people with mobility, sensory and cognitive impairments by implementing the commitments in The Department of Transport's Sectoral Plan under the Disability Act 2005. • Deliver a sustainable transport system that balances social, economic and environmental considerations. 2.4.3 Socio-Economic Context The National Macro-Economic Context Over the last decade, unprecedented economic growth has seen the level of Irish real GDP almost double in size. There have been many reasons advanced for Ireland's success, which in combination can help explain the exceptionally strong growth rates experienced. They include EU membership, the stimulus provided by structural and cohesion funds and access to the Single Market; Ireland’s low corporation tax rate and a large multinational presence; a high proportion of the population of working age; increased participation in the labour market especially by females; a reversal of the trend of emigration toward immigration; sustained investment in education and training; co-ordinated social partnership agreements and a more stable public finance position. In recent years an especially strong growth in the domestic demand for residential housing completions has masked a relatively modest export performance. The economy is now experiencing an oversupply of housing units, in combination with successive rises in European Central Bank (ECB) interest rates and a drop in consumer sentiment towards the housing market. There was a strong export growth recovery in 2007, driven by high levels of growth in trade related services, financial services and computer services. Service sector exports grew by 18% in 2007, this is 42% of total exports and points to a growing shift and well-established trend, towards services as the main Irish export sector. These prevailing economic conditions have resulted in a significant downturn in economic growth in 2007 and are demonstrated by a growth of 4.5% in GNP in 2007 down from 6.5% in 2006. This trend is set to continue in 2008 compounded by international developments such as the on-going difficulties in international financial markets, the economic slowdown in the United States and the appreciation of the euro. This is reflected in the Central Bank’s outlook for 20088 which predicts GNP growth of just 1.9% in 2008. The Central Bank expects a modest recovery in performance in 2009 with growth in GNP expected increase to 3.2%. This growth estimate is set against a background of an anticipated improvement in the international climate and a stabilisation of output in the domestic construction sector. The Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI)9 expects a growth in the number of people unemployed in the Irish Labour Force and no aggregate job creation in 2008, the unemployment rate for 2008 is expected to be 6.0% up from 4.6% in 2007. The anticipated economic recovery in 2009 will contribute to a resumption in employment growth. The ESRI estimates that 24,000 jobs will be created, however they expect a continuing rise in the unemployment rate to 6.2% in 2009. 8 9

Central Bank (2008) Quarterly Bulletin: 2008 Q2. ESRI (2008). Quarterly Economic Commentary. Spring 2008.

The participation rate in the labour force for all persons aged 15 or over has increased to 63.9% in 2007, up from 63.3% for the same period in 2006. The participation rate has increased for both females (54.5%) and males (73.4%)10. Annual inflation was 4.7% in 2007 compared to 5.0% in 2006, the ESRI expects an easing in the rate of inflation this year and in 2009 largely due to a more stable interest rate environment and an anticipated easing of wage pressures due to a weakening in the labour market. 2.5 Substantial modification under Article 57 of regulation (EC) No. 1083/2006 No modifications are required at this time 2.6 Complementarity with other instruments The Operational Programme sets out arrangements on complementarity with other current programmes. As Managing Authority for the Operational Programme, the S&E Regional Assembly is responsible for ensuring that that arrangements are put in place with other Programme Managers to ensure that assistance from the Funds is consistent with the activities, policies and priorities of the Community and complementary with other financial instruments of the Community. The objective is to ensure that no duplication exists which might reduce the impact of the programme. These other programmes include • ESF Human capital Investment Programme • National Rural Development Programme • European Fisheries Fund • EU Research Framework Programmes • PEACE III Programme • Territorial Co-operation (Objective 3) Programmes • National Development Plan In order to ensure co-ordination across OPs, the Managing Authority will participate fully on the Committee on Coordination of EU funds to be established and chaired by the Department of Finance, as set out in the NSRF. 2.7 Monitoring and Data Collection Arrangements Constitution of the Operational Programme Monitoring Committee Immediately following the adoption of the S&E Regional Operational Programme, the Managing Authority wrote to the heads of each of the agreed nominating bodies on 1 November 2007 inviting them to nominate their representatives. The categories of membership of the Monitoring Committee, as agreed with the NSRF Managing Authority (Department of Finance) are as follows: • the Managing Authority; • the Department of Finance; • Government Departments involved in the implementation of the OP (or their Agencies); • the Special EU Programmes Body; • the Regional Authorities; • Regional Bodies; • each of the four Social Partners Pillars; and • appropriate statutory body(ies) to represent each horizontal interest: social inclusion, gender equality and sustainable development. The letter to nominating bodies stressed that gender balance will be promoted on the Monitoring Committee.

CSO (2008). Quarterly National Household Survey, 2007 Q4.

First Meeting of the Monitoring Committee The first meeting of the Operational Programme Monitoring Committee took place on November 16th at the Assembly offices, Assembly House, O’Connell Street, Waterford. The meeting was given an overview of the approved Operational Programme and an outline of the proposed implementation arrangements. The powers and functions of the Monitoring Committee were presented and the rules of procedure were adopted. The first draft of the individual theme/sub-theme Implementation Plans were presented and a standard reporting template for future meetings of the Monitoring Committee was adopted. The arrangements for the launch and publication of the OP were outlined at the meeting. The Committee received an update on the following: • Communications Action Plan • National Eligibility Rules • Financial Systems • IT System The second meeting took place on 29th April 2008, progress on the implementation of the OP was considered. Financial data will be collected via an IT System that will be shared by the BMW OP & the Human Capital Investment OP. The tender process is now complete and a contract is in place it is expected that the system will be ready for testing in July. The method for collecting physical outputs is via the monitoring committee reports. Data Collection For each theme, output and result indicators have been specified and agreed. Data will be provided in the annual progress reports for each theme to monitor progress against the agreed indicator targets. A standard reporting template was approved at the November 2007 Monitoring Committee meeting. In addition the IT system will capture project-level data as set out in Annex III of the Implementation Regulation

3. Implementation by Priority 3.1

Priority 1 Innovation and the Knowledge Economy

ARE Applied Research Enhancement Incubation Centre Development EI Commercialisation Fund There was no expenditure during 2007. However all operational activities are now underway in all three sub-themes. The first round of the Commercialisation Fund closed in January 2008 and a second call will launch in May 2008. Preparation for the new Campus Incubation Centre Call is underway and the call will launch in April 2008. The ARE Programme is also open. There was no expenditure during 2007 Building Research Capacity Programme of Research in Third Level Institutions (PRTLI) The PRTLI aims to support a strategic and planned approach by third-level institutions to the long-term development of their research capabilities, consistent with their existing and developing research strengths and capabilities. Expenditure under the PRTLI is included in the Productive Sector OP 2000-06 until June 2008, so there has been expenditure under the new programme of €35,135,878.40 reported. Grant allocation in 2008 for the Research Facilities Enhancement Scheme in the S&E region totals €47,322,334.00. Under the Research Equipment Renewal Scheme 2007 €24,625,607.43 was allocated to Universities and Institutes of Higher Education for replacement, updating and renewal of research equipment. Micro-Enterprise – Innovation and Entrepreneurship ERDF expenditure of €4,688,426.53 was incurred during 2007. Performance Indicators Baseline

Mid-term Dec ‘09

Final

Outturn to 31/12/07

150

350

110

160

236

300

380

Indicator Applied Research Enhancement Programme

Commercialisa tion Fund

Campus Incubation Centres Building the Research Capacity & Capability

Number of ARE Centres in place/extended Number of industrially focused projects Number of approvals by IRCC Proof of Concept, Technology Development, Commercialisation Plus Licenses achieved as a result of funded research Start-up Enterprises arising from funded research No. of business incubation centres in place/ extended No of companies in centres No of employees in these companies Enhanced collaboration through the development of National Collaborative Programmes An increase in physical

0 0

within Higher Education Institutions

Micro Enterprise

infrastructure (work spaces) contributing to meeting SSTI goals Work Spaces: New Work Spaces Replacement Provision of new and unique infrastructure (specialised facilities) for Ireland Enhanced teaching and learning through the development of Graduate Education Programmes

The provision of a framework for the development of enhanced graduate programmes will provide a nationally relevant broad skill set of importance to academia, policy and industry in Ireland. The increases proposed in the SSTI and the active encouragement of the professional development of researchers in Ireland, with the aim to see a significant movement into the enterprise sector, underscores the need for a ‘graduate school type mechanism’ in the country. Output 1. No of micro-enterprises assisted11 Of which Male Promoters Of which Female Promoters Of which Promoter is company/partnership/other 2.No of training days provided12 Male Female Other Result 1. No. of jobs created in assisted micro-enterprise13 Male F/T Female F/T

300 350 Developmen t at Mace Head GMP Manufacturi ng Facilities e-Inis Digital Humanities Observatory

2998 1071

0 0

Further graduate initiatives expected in Cycle 5

Ten out of the sixteen programmes that will be funded under Cycle Four of PRTLI have a graduate education component.

Continued funding for individual ly funded graduate researcher s

4,029

5,743

8,029

538

2,647 1,202

3,773 1,713

5,276 2,395

393 121

180

257

358

74,294

149,294

249,294

26,932.5 10,785.6 16,122.1 24.6

24,858

28,158

32,558

1,750

14,012 7,786

15,872 8,822

18,353 10,200

940 532

PMS Report N109 “Key and Secondary Indicators Summary – Key no 3, Secondary Indicator no 6” 1/1/07– 31/12/07, printed 18/03/08 plus baseline figure 12 PMS Report N110 “National Development Plan Performance Indicators – Key no 9” 1/1/07–31/12/07, printed 18/03/08 plus baseline figure 13 PMS Report N117 “National Roll Up Summary” 1/1/07–31/12/07, printed 25/03/08 11

2.No of training recipients14 Of Which Male Of Which Female Of Which Companies/partnership/other

57,159 22,346 34,462

93,169 36,447 56,152

141,159 56,184 84,275

14,891 5,778 9,055

351

568

700

* Figures calculated using baseline figure plus 2007 figures

* Figures calculated using baseline figure plus 2007 figures ** Outturn figure will be clarified when expenditure is declared to the Managing Authority 3.2

Priority 2 Environment and Accessibility

3.2.1

Sustainable Energy Energy for Business Programme Strategic Development Zones Renewable Energy R,D&D CHP & Bioheat (Reheat) Programme There was no expenditure reported for this theme in 2007.

3.2.2

Rural Water Source Protection It is expected that liaison with local authorities on the identification and selection of schemes for inclusion in this intervention will commence mid 2008

3.2.3

Village Sewerage Systems The identification and selection of schemes for inclusion in this intervention will commence before the end of June 2008.

Performance Indicators Class Indicator Output

The development of a CHP and Bioheat Boiler Deployment Programme to assist in the deployment of small-scale fossil fired CHP, and biomass CHP and heating systems in industrial, commercial and public sectors.

Baseline

Final New CHP Installations by 2010: - In the region of 50-80 new gas fired CHP installations; - Growth of the CHP supply chain and competence building within the CHP installer market; - 10-20 new gas fired CHP installations; - 5 - 8 new AD installations approx. 200kWe; - 1-3 new biomass CHP of approx. 2MWe; New Reheat Outputs by 2010 - 450 - 600 wood fuelled

Outturn to 31.12.2007 0

PMS Report N110 “National Development Plan Performance Indicators – Key no 4” 1/1/07–31/12/07, printed 18/03/08 plus baseline figure

Result

Leveraged investment No. of gas-fired CHP installations

Impact

Output

Result

Impact

Deliver a range of support programmes and services across the business sector, progressively servicing more businesses (measured in terms of energy spend by those businesses). Level of energy spend in businesses targeted for energy management advice and support services Cumulative Energy savings resulting from SEI’s business energy management and advice services. Cumulative Total

boilers supported by end 2010 - 12,000 m2 of installed solar panels. - 15 - 20 heat pumps systems 0 CHP Results: - Leveraged investment of €30m in CHP in Ireland - 50-80 New gas fired CHP installations of 100/120kWe - 10-20 New gas fired CHP installations of 500kWe1MWe Reheat Results - Leveraged investment of approximately €85 million by 2010. - A set of supported installations leading to a reduction in commercial / industrial energy related carbon dioxide emissions - Confidence building with the renewable energy equipment - 175 – 225 MWth of installed 0 capacity of wood fuelled boilers by 2010 - 1.5 - 2 MWth of installed capacity from heat pumps systems 0

€1,300m

€306m

6370GWh

Result

Impact

Output

Result

Primary energy Equivalent (PEE) Savings resulting from SEI’s business energy management and advice services Acceleration of the development and deployment in the Irish marketplace of competitive renewable energy products, processes and systems. Enabling technical and other barriers to market uptake and/or modal switching to be overcome.

The number of RE R,D&D projects delivered under the following areas: • Shared cost • Demonstration: • Shared cost R&D: Commissioned public good activities Demonstrate and promote integrated community approaches to sustainable energy via a network of Sustainable Energy Zones Number of sustainable development zones that each comprise a mix of social and private houses, industry, institutional buildings and transport facilities.

Ocean & Tidal Energy - 3 quarter scale prototypes deployed

First grid connection by end 2013

Base of the Ocean and Tidal Energy industry established with 3 quarter scale ocean energy companies 9% of renewable energy in electricity supply

First Ocean and Tidal Energy grid connected array producing power

The Provision of models and lessons to motivate and guide regulators, developers and

18% of renewable energy in electricity supply

Three Zones fully operational (Cumulative)

20,000 MWh contribution from renewable electricity within the 3 SDZ per annum

consumer choice. Impact

Output

Result

20% contribution from renewable electricity within SDZ - 10% penetration of renewable heat into the SDZ - A 40% improvement in energy efficiency performance of the buildings within the SDZ. No. of initiatives to enable broadband infrastructure and service provision Additional businesses with broadband available No. in ClĂĄr regions

35,000 MWh contribution from renewable heat within SDZ per annum

23,125

3.3 Priority 3 Sustainable Urban Development Urban Regeneration Urban Renewal The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government is currently finalising proposals for the Urban Regeneration Scheme 2007 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2013. ACCESS (Arts Infrastructure) To date no expenditure has occurred, as applications have not yet been accepted for the new scheme. No expenditure is expected to take place until 2009 at the earliest. Sports Capital No expenditure has been incurred on projects eligible under the EU co-financed elements of the SCP. Swimming Pool Programme Project level activity is not anticipated to commence until late 2009 with first drawdown of grants not expected until 2010. This subtheme will not be co-financed.

Public Transport The Department of Transport will deliver a range of measures among which will be the removal of speed restrictions at Limerick Junction. One of the objectives of the theme is the increase in use of public transport

on rail services through Limerick Junction and the decrease in journey times in respect of services through Limerick Junction Class

Indicator

Output

Journey Time Dublin-Limerick

Result Impact

Additional services Increased use of public transport

Output Provision of high quality multi-disciplinary arts and culture facilities

Arts and cultural centre built

Result Improved opportunities to participate in arts and cultural activities

Increased and enhanced number of venues.

Impact Increased participation

Increased numbers of audiences / artists participating in arts and culture.

Output Municipal multi-sport facilities built

1 municipal multi sports centre built

Baseline 2006 Average minutes 141 10 daily 720,000 journeys Centres currently in

Final 2013

Outturn to 31.12.2007

Average minutes 137

Dependant on successful applications from other Hubs and Gateways

Centres currently in

Dependant on successful applications from other Hubs and Gateways

Improved opportunities to participate in sport Impact Increased participation Output Result

Number of public pools funded Number of public pools opened to the public

4 pools

5 pools

1 pool per 58K population

1 pool per 50K population

3.4 Technical Assistance The Technical Assistance Priority is a stand-alone priority administered by the S&E Regional Assembly as Managing Authority. It is a priority which applies across the entire Operational Programme and consequently, is not part of the suite of themes designed to contribute directly to the achievement of the specific objectives of the Operational Programme. The total technical assistance budget for the duration of the Operational Programme is â&#x201A;Ź. Under this priority, funding is provided to cover programme wide costs in relation to areas such as preparation, management, monitoring, evaluation, information and control of the Operational Programme together with activities to reinforce the administrative capacity for implementing the Funds.

Expenditure for the Technical Assistance theme for 2007 is â&#x201A;Ź36,346.72 Performance Indicators Indicator 1. Number of Monitoring Committee Meetings held 2. Number of Evaluations & Studies conducted 3. Verification Audits & Closure audits 4. Number of annual publicity events

Baseline figures 0 0 0 0

Mid-term Target 3 2 3 3

Final Target 2013 7 3 7 7

Out-turn to end of reported year 1 0 0 0

The expenditure above represents expenditure incurred by the Regional Assembly only. Other expenditures incurred in respect of Publicity, Audit, IT system, Regional authorities etc., have not yet been quantified and are therefore not included. As a % of the amount of Structural Funds contribution, the amount spent on technical assistance is .003%

3.5 Theme Progress 3.5.1 Applied Research Enhancement (ARE) Incubation Facilities & Collaborative Initiatives 3.5.1.1. Applied Research Enhancement 3.5.1.2 Commercialisation Fund 3.5.1.3 Incubation Centre Development Introduction The Implementation Plan documents are now completed for Enterprise Ireland’s participating Programmes namely Campus Incubation Centre Development Programme, Applied Research Enhancement Programme and the Enterprise Ireland Commercialisation Fund. The performance indicators are represented in Table 2, the forecast budget for 2008 and 2009 are presented in Table 1. Forecast budget 2008 & 2009 Enterprise Ireland Programme

2008 (€ M) 2.7 14.1 1.8 18.6

Applied Research Enhancement Commercialisation Fund Incubators Total

2009 (€ M) 4.7 19.1 2.5 26.3

Expenditure

Expenditure was incurred but not claimed during 2007 as submissions under the Productive Sector and Regional Operating Programmes continue into 2008 in order to maximise drawdown. Operational activities are underway in all three sub-themes. The first round of the Commercialisation Fund closed in January 2008 and a second call closed in May 2008. The next call will close in September 2008. The Call for the new Campus Incubation was launched in May 2008. The Applied Research Enhancement Programme is also open.

Performance Indicators Applied Research Enhancement Programme

Commercialisa tion Fund

Campus Incubation Centres

Indicator

4 4

Mid-term Dec ‘09 6 8

150

350

57 236

110 300

160 380

Baseline

Number of ARE Centres in place/extended Number of industrially focused projects Number of approvals by IRCC -Proof of Concept, Technology Development, Commercialisation Plus Licenses achieved as a result of funded research Start-up Enterprises arising from funded research No. of business incubation centres in place/ extended No of companies in centres No of employees in these companies

Future Prospects

Final 7 12

Operational activities are underway in all three programmes. The first round of the Commercialisation Fund closed in January 2008 and a second call will launch in May 2008. Preparation for the new Campus Incubation Centre Call is underway and the call will launch in April 2008. The ARE Programme is open.

3.5.2

Building the Research Capacity & Capability within HEI Building the Research Capacity & Capability within Higher education Institutions – S&E 1. PROGRAMME FOR RESEARCH IN THIRD LEVEL INSTITUTIONS

Background

The Programme for Research in Third-Level Institutions was launched in 1998. The Programme, which is designed to facilitate Irish institutions to produce world class research, supports research in humanities, science, technology and the social sciences, including business and law. The PRTLI aims to support a strategic and planned approach by third-level institutions to the long-term development of their research capabilities, consistent with their existing and developing research strengths and capabilities. The programme also seeks to enhance the quality and relevance of graduate output and skills and to encourage cooperation between researchers within and between institutions. Proposals are required to promote excellence in research and are made by institutions rather than by specific faculties or individuals. The emphasis is on assisting institutions to enhance and develop research capabilities. Research in a wide range of areas is eligible for support including humanities, science, technology and the social sciences. An independent international panel of leading academics and researchers, who are individuals of the highest standing in their respective disciplines and research communities, evaluate proposals. No Irish person is permitted to participate in the decision-making process, ensuring complete independence and enabling the panel to assess proposals using international best practice as a guide. There have been four cycles of awards under the PRTLI to date. Awards to date: Cycle 1 – (2000-2003) 2 – (2001- 2004) 3 – (2002– 2006) 4 – (2007- 2010) Total

CAPITAL €m 177.5 48.8 178 131.3 535.6

CURRENT €m 28.6 29.7 142.4 129.4 330.1

TOTAL €m 206.1 78.5 320.4 260.7 865.7

Note: Totals include both exchequer and private funding. Current expenditure for Cycle 3 funded programmes will run until 2008. Cycle 4 of the PRTLI builds on the achievements of the three previous cycles under the Programme. In addition to its main objective of supporting world class research, it also rewards innovation and collaboration in higher education. The PRTLI is a key element of the Strategy for Science Technology and Innovation, the road map for the implementation of Government policy to develop a knowledge economy and Fourth Level Ireland. ‘World class

research, world class people and world class enterprises with the drive to succeed, and the resources to do it’ are what the SSTI aims to deliver. The PRTLI will support the development of infrastructural foundations, quality enhanced activities and graduate programmes for the training of increased numbers of PhD’s. The SSTI sets challenging targets for Ireland in the production of high-quality postgraduates and post-doctorates with a range of skills – the “knowledge workers” of the future. The projects under PRTLI 4 will enable the further development of the national research infrastructure and postgraduate education. It will fund quality research teams, postgraduate education enhancement initiatives including graduate schools and support collaborative national initiatives in order to optimise the returns from research investments. While the biggest return on the PRTLI investment will be the highly skilled people which are highly prized by all sectors of the economy and by international investors, the PRTLI will also promote knowledge transfer from research centres into industry and alliances involving higher education, business and social partners. Sustained economic growth will depend on the attraction of highly-skilled researchers from overseas combined with the creation of a vibrant home grown innovation system. The creation of an environment and facilities capable of attracting and retaining high quality researchers will be a key goal of the PRTLI. PROJECT ASSESSMENT PROCESS FOR CYCLE 4 The International Assessment Panel met in July 2007 and recommended funding be awarded to 16 programmes, 8 of which are national collaborative programmes, 6 individual institution programmes and 2 collaborative programmes. Additionally, three infrastructural projects were recommended for support. The HEA also employed a Process Auditor on the Phase 2 assessment to ensure that the process was fair and did not favour any one applicant over another. INCREASED PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE - there are an additional 894 work spaces being provided through PRTLI Cycle 4. INCREASED HUMAN INFRASTRUCTURE - The PRTLI enables the quality training of young researchers, who are required both for the public and private sectors. The PRTLI has to date funded one third of the directly Exchequer-funded Ph.D. student stock. The programme will contribute significantly and directly to the doubling of Ph.D. output in order to upscale research across all the disciplines. This includes building critical mass in the research teams and Cycle 4 of PRTLI is contributing to meeting these goals by providing:

Human Infrastructure PRTLI Cycle 4 Impacts ALL

HSS

Human Infrastructure PIs

Total Positions 24.89

New/Additional Positions 16.99

Human Infrastructure PIs

Total Positions 11.99

New/Additional Positions

Researchers (PhD+)

158.33

141.66

Researchers (PhD+)

45.00

39.33

Research Assistants Technicians

45.29 45.95

40.04 35.7

Research Assistant Technicians

7.69 6.00

7.19

PhD Student Places Others Total

359.67 28.16 662.29

359.67 19.86 613.92

PhD Student Places Other Total

128.00 10.43 209.11

128

7.99

8.43

196.94

Regional breakdown Researchers (PhD+)

PIs

S&E

Research Assistants

Technicians

PhD Student Places

Others

22.89

129.33

44.29

42.50

313.67

28.16

BMW

3.45

Totals

24.89

158.33

45.29

45.95

359.67

28.16

Following Ministerial approval in August 2007 of the successful PRTLI 4 projects, the Higher Education Authority commenced discussions with these institutions in relation to their implementation plans. Once these were agreed the first tranche of funding issued to the institutions in December 2007. As the 2007/08 academic year had already commenced most of the human infrastructure is being recruited during 2008, with many taking up position for the 2008/09 academic year.

The HEA is currently obtaining progress reports from the institutions on the first six months of operation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; these progress reports will include details of the personnel appointed as well as the gender breakdown. This additional information will be included in the next report to the monitoring committee meeting.

PRTLI Cycle 5 will be announced by the Minister very shortly and full details will be provided in the next progress report.

Expenditure

The PRTLI Cycles 2 and 3 are mostly complete with only a small element of project funding to issue. The funding of PRTLI 4 commenced in late 2007 and will continue to 2011. The allocations by institution and by region under PRTLI 4 are given in the attached appendix. The allocations are also broken down by thematic area.

S&E (recurrent) expenditure under the PRTLI S&E Cycle 2 S&E Cycle 3 S&E Cycle 4 Total

2007 Total €2,146,298 €2,838,324 €13,230,000

2008 Total €0 €2,013,185 €34,955,666

€18,214,622

€36,968,851

2009 Total

2010 Total

2011 Total

€0 €35,248,577

€21,571,184

€4,215,198

€35,248,577

€21,571,184

€4,215,198

Total €2,146,298 €4,851,509 €109,220,625 €116,218,432

S&E (capital) expenditure under the PRTLI S&E Cycle 1 S&E Cycle 2 S&E Cycle 3 S&E Cycle 4 Total

2007 Total €7,788,951 €2,071,327 €25,918,071 €0 €35,778,349.00

2008 Total €819,384 €0 €11,322,251 €22,000,000 €34,141,635.00

2009 Total €0 €0 €0 €48,000,000 €48,000,000.00

2010 Total €0 €0 €0 €30,563,728 €30,563,728.00

2011 Total €0 €0 €0 €0 €0.00

Total €8,608,335.00 €2,071,327.00 €37,240,322.00 €100,563,728.00 €148,483,712.00

The expenditure for 2008 onwards is a best guesstimate at this stage. The actual expenditure is dependant upon satisfactory reports and progress by the institutions on the various projects.

Appendix 1 Projects approved, by institution, under PRTLI Cycle 4 S&E Funded Projects Institution UCD

UCC

TCD

DCU

TOTAL HSIS - Global Ireland - Transforming the study of Ireland & its Diaspora Biopharmaceutical & Pharmacological Sciences Food Ireland National Nanoscience Programme Science Centre

Exchequer Capital 17,547,050

Exchequer Recurrent 9,622,763

27,169,813

2,610,000

4,622,710

861,913 1,528,140

861,913 1,528,140 17,547,050

17,547,050

Total

TOTAL Food Ireland: National Food and Health Collaborative Research Programme Nanoscience and Nanoscale Technologies for Ireland UCC Biosciences Cell Biology and Cell Signalling New Space Humanities Serving Irish Society (HSIS) National Biophotonics Imaging Platform (NBIP) National Programme in Research and Training in (Bio)Pharmaceuticals and Pharmacological Sciences (BioPharma) National Programme of Research on Knowledge, Innovation, Society and Space (KISS) e-Inis - The Irish National e-infrastructure

16,809,626

6,601,206

23,410,832

4,059,626

754,000

4,813,626

5,100,000

1,804,876

6,904,876

3,000,000

200,000

1,235,831

1,435,831

3,700,000

949,915

4,649,915

500,000

687,120

1,187,120

919,482

250,000

249,983

499,983

TOTAL Humanities Serving Irish Society Frontiers in Socio-Economic Research Nanoscience and Nanotechnologies e-Inis - the Irish national e-infrastructure Biopharmaceuticals and Pharmacological Sciences

12,053,823 6,804,083 4,500,000 500,000

7,058,383 3,983,527 1,713,756 670,800

19,112,206 10,787,610 6,213,756 1,170,800

249,740

690,300

940,040

TOTAL (Bio)pharmaceutical & Pharmacological Sciences DCU component: Target-driven Therapeutics & Theranostics (T3) National Biophotonics & Imaging Platform [NBIP] Nanoscience and Nanoscale technologies for Ireland (NANOTEIRE)

10,460,259

12,716,887

23,177,146

6,427,512

6,018,357

12,445,869

2,224,000

4,750,813

6,974,813

1,808,747

663,000

2,471,747

Knowledge, Innovation, Society & Space (KISS) Humanities Serving Irish Society: Foras Feasa (HSIS)

894,676

390,041

RCSI

TOTAL National Biophotonics Imaging Platform

3,572,500 3,572,500

7,331,486 7,331,486

10,903,986 10,903,986

NUIM

TOTAL Humanities serving Irish Society: Humanities, Technology, Innovation (An Foras Feasa) National Programme of Research on Knowledge, Innovation, Society and Space (KISS) Network Mathematics National Biophotonics and Imaging Platform e-Inis - the Irish national e-infrastructure

5,660,000

9,995,989

15,655,989

2,830,000

2,990,150

5,820,150

2,830,000

3,575,709

6,405,709

2,255,186 940,603 234,341

9,317,630

8,331,174

17,648,804

5,197,100

2,136,443

7,333,543

3,477,530

2,300,505

5,778,035

405,000 238,000

2,509,450 333,050 1,051,726

2,509,450 738,050 1,289,726

3,527,881 3,527,881 1,058,044

934,769

123,275

RIA NCAD

TOTAL Lero: The Irish Software Engineering Research Centre and Graduate School Nanoscience and Nanoscale technologies for Ireland Knowledge, Innovation, Society and Space Food Ireland National Biophotonics and Imaging Platform TOTAL DHO/ADR TOTAL Post Graduate Research & Development in Art and Design â&#x20AC;&#x201C; GradCAM Visual Research and Digital Archiving (HSIS)

DIAS

TOTAL e-Inis - the Irish national e-infrastructure

4,230,000 4,230,000

5,302,906 5,302,906

9,532,906 9,532,906

WIT

TOTAL WIT Integrated Research Building Serving Society: Management of Future Communications Networks and Services

3,217,189 3,217,189

3,195,484 -

6,412,673 3,217,189

3,195,484

TOTAL GRADCAM NanoTEIRE National Biophotonics and Imaging Platform

4,037,692 2,091,907 1,945,785

4,872,141 1,061,713 2,168,415 1,642,013

8,909,833 1,061,713 4,260,323 3,587,798

TOTAL NEMBES Photonics / Nanoscience & Nanotechnology

6,697,000 5,947,000 750,000

8,703,376 7,631,360 1,072,016

15,400,376 13,578,360 1,822,016

DIT

CIT

IT Tallaght

TOTAL Centre of Applied Science for Health

UCD

TOTAL Irish Social Science Data Archive Biomedical Science (Graduate Training Programme)

UCC

TCD

RCSI

5,260,959 5,260,959

4,000,000 4,000,000

9,260,959 9,260,959

2,667,696 750,000

1,917,696

TOTAL Environment Graduate Programme Biomedical Science (Graduate Training Programme)

2,862,669 1,016,812

1,845,857

TOTAL Biomedical Science (Graduate Training Programme) Environment Graduate Programme

3,544,315

2,235,631

1,308,684

2,437,946

TOTAL Biomedical Science (Graduate Training Programme)

NUIM

TOTAL Environment Graduate Programme

298,965 298,965

TOTAL Environment Graduate Programme

617,502 617,502

CIT

TOTAL Environment Graduate Programme

800,209 800,209

2,500,209 2,500,209

1,700,000 1,700,000

Appendix 2

Allocations on a Thematic basis Institution

Programme

Capital

Current

Total

National Collaborative Programmes

DCU

National Programme on (Bio)pharmaceutical & Pharmacological Sciences

6,427,512

6,018,357

12,445,869

UCC

National Programme on (Bio)pharmaceutical & Pharmacological Sciences

500,000

687,120

1,187,120

UCD

National Programme on (Bio)pharmaceutical & Pharmacological Sciences

4,622,710

TCD

National Programme on (Bio)pharmaceutical & Pharmacological Sciences

249,740

690,300

940,040

7,177,252

12,018,487

19,195,739

250,000 772,000 500,000 4,230,000 5,752,000

249,983 234,341 249,892 670,800 5,302,906 6,707,921

499,983 234,341 1,021,892 1,170,800 9,532,906 12,459,921

4,059,626

754,000

4,813,626

861,913

405,000

333,050

738,050

4,464,626

1,948,963

6,413,589

10,174,083

390,041 3,006,248 2,990,150 3,983,527 1,235,831 3,527,881 123,275 2,610,000 17,866,954

390,041 3,346,248 5,820,150 10,787,610 1,435,831 3,527,881 123,275 2,610,000 28,041,037

1,998,286 750,000 1,808,747 2,091,907 4,500,000 5,100,000

680,875 1,072,016 663,000 2,168,415 1,713,756 1,804,876

2,679,161 1,822,016 2,471,747 4,260,323 6,213,756 6,904,876

TOTAL UCC NUIM NUIG TCD DIAS TOTAL

e-INIS: the Irish National e-Infrastructure e-INIS: the Irish National e-Infrastructure e-INIS: the Irish National e-Infrastructure e-INIS: the Irish National e-Infrastructure e-INIS: the Irish National e-Infrastructure

UCC

FoodIreland: National Food and Health Collaborative Research Programme

UCD

FoodIreland: National Food and Health Collaborative Research Programme

TOTAL DCU NUIG NUIM TCD UCC RIA NCAD UCD TOTAL

Humanities Serving Irish Society (HSIS) Humanities Serving Irish Society (HSIS) Humanities Serving Irish Society (HSIS) Humanities Serving Irish Society (HSIS) Humanities Serving Irish Society (HSIS) Humanities Serving Irish Society (HSIS) Humanities Serving Irish Society (HSIS) Humanities Serving Irish Society (HSIS)

NUIG CIT DCU DIT TCD UCC

Nanoscience and Nano scale technologies for Ireland (NANOTEIRE) Nanoscience and Nano scale technologies for Ireland (NANOTEIRE) Nanoscience and Nano scale technologies for Ireland (NANOTEIRE) Nanoscience and Nano scale technologies for Ireland (NANOTEIRE) Nanoscience and Nano scale technologies for Ireland (NANOTEIRE)

340,000 2,830,000 6,804,083 200,000

Nanoscience and Nano scale technologies for Ireland (NANOTEIRE)

UCD UL

Nanoscience and Nano scale technologies for Ireland (NANOTEIRE) Nanoscience and Nano scale technologies for Ireland (NANOTEIRE)

TOTAL DCU DIT NUIG NUIM RCSI UCC UL TOTAL

National Biophotonics & Imaging Platform [NBIP] National Biophotonics & Imaging Platform [NBIP] National Biophotonics & Imaging Platform [NBIP] National Biophotonics & Imaging Platform [NBIP] National Biophotonics & Imaging Platform [NBIP] National Biophotonics & Imaging Platform [NBIP] National Biophotonics & Imaging Platform [NBIP]

3,477,530 19,726,470 2,224,000 1,945,785 500,000 3,572,500 3,700,000 238,000 12,180,285

DCU

National Programme of Research on Knowledge, Innovation, Society and Space (KISS)

NUIG

National Programme of Research on Knowledge, Innovation, Society and Space (KISS)

NUIM

National Programme of Research on Knowledge, Innovation, Society and Space (KISS)

UCC UL

1,528,140 2,300,505 11,931,582 4,750,813 1,642,013 1,218,774 940,603 7,331,486 949,915 1,051,726 17,885,330

1,528,140 5,778,035 31,658,052 6,974,813 3,587,798 1,718,774 940,603 10,903,986 4,649,915 1,289,726 30,065,615

894,676

229,500

5,583,430

5,812,930

2,830,000

3,575,709

6,405,709

National Programme of Research on Knowledge, Innovation, Society and Space (KISS)

919,482

National Programme of Research on Knowledge, Innovation, Society and Space (KISS)

2,509,450

13,482,747

16,542,247

TOTAL

3,059,500

DIT

GradCAM - The Graduate School of Creative Arts and Media

1,061,713

NCAD

GradCAM - The Graduate School of Creative Arts and Media

934,769

1,996,481

62,534,216

83,838,464

146,372,680

5,947,000 5,260,959 3,000,000

7,631,360 4,000,000 2,255,186 -

13,578,360 9,260,959 2,255,186 3,000,000

5,197,100

2,136,443

7,333,543

3,195,484

19,218,473

38,623,532

17,547,050 3,217,189

TOTAL Sub Total

National Collaborative Programs

Own Institutional Programmes

NEMBES / NEMBES Centre of Applied Science for Health Network Mathematics UCC Biosciences Cell Biology and Cell Signalling New Space Lero: The Irish Software Engineering Research Centre and Graduate School

WIT

Serving Society: Management of Future Communications Networks and Services

Sub Total II

Own Institutional Programmes

CIT ITT NUIM UCC

19,405,059

Captial Projects Science Centre UCD WIT Integrated Research Building WIT Sub Total III Captial Projects

17,547,050 3,217,189 20,764,239

20,764,239

Other strategic elements recommended for support Specific Graduate Schools UCC TCD NUIG NUIM UL CIT TOTAL

Environment Graduate Programme Environment Graduate Programme Environment Graduate Programme Environment Graduate Programme Environment Graduate Programme Environment Graduate Programme

UCD UCC TCD RCSI NUIG TOTAL

Biomedical Science (Graduate Training Programme) Biomedical Science (Graduate Training Programme) Biomedical Science (Graduate Training Programme) Biomedical Science (Graduate Training Programme) Biomedical Science (Graduate Training Programme)

4,430,500 1,700,000 6,130,500

1,016,812 1,308,684 1,381,725 298,965 617,502 800,209 5,423,897

1,016,812 1,308,684 5,812,225 298,965 617,502 2,500,209 11,554,397

1,917,696 1,845,857 2,235,631 2,437,946 2,778,042 11,215,172

National Infrastructure UCD

Irish Social Science Data Archive

Sub Total IV

Other strategic elements recommended for support

750,000

Overall Grand Total

750,000

6,130,500

17,389,069

23,519,569

108,834,014

120,446,006

229,280,020

Institutional Totals UCD UCC TCD DCU RCSI NUIG NUIM UL RIA NCAD DIAS WIT DIT CIT IT Tallaght

29,837,509 26,273,501 22,656,521 23,177,146 13,341,932 23,169,271 15,954,954 18,266,306 3,527,881 1,058,044 9,532,906 6,412,673 8,909,833 17,900,585 9,260,959

TOTAL

229,280,020

Universities

159,335,208

IOTs

42,484,050

Other

27,460,763

Total

229,280,020

2. TECHNOLOGICAL SECTOR RESEARCH The Technological Sector Research Programme is funded by the Department of Education and Science and is available only to Institutes of Technology. There are three strands within the programme. Strand I: Postgraduate R&D Skills Development Programme provides research and development training for graduates leading to the award of a Masters Degree. The programme includes education/training in advanced research techniques and the application of new technologies. Projects are based in the areas of Science/Technology or Business/Humanities. The main objective of the programme is to increase the supply of graduates with the necessary skills to provide the advice and technical support required by industry/business. Strand II: The objective of the Enterprise Platform Programme is to provide systematic enterprise development training programmes to provide graduates with the necessary skills to establish and run their own business. Aims to train entrepreneurs in the skills required to establish and run their own businesses. The approach to achieving the aims of the Enterprise Platform Programme is a dual one, comprising the provision of formal education/ training in enterprise/product development on the one hand, strongly reinforced by enterprisespecific advice and counselling through a network of industry/business mentors on the other. It is envisaged that programme participants will, by the end of the programme's duration, have obtained the skills necessary to bring a business/enterprise idea to a sufficient stage of development to be either launched in the market place, or, in the case of businesses that have recently commenced trading, to strengthen their market/trading position. This programme compliments activities of Enterprise Ireland. Strand III: Projects - This strand is aimed at funding postgraduate, postdoctoral or other experienced researchers and developing the expertise of existing academic staff in research to build core strengths. This strand operates through a competitive process based on proposals from institutions that wish to develop core research capabilities through a process of peer review. The objectives of this strand are: • • •

To enable a strategic and planned approach by the technological sector to the long-term development of sectoral research capabilities; To promote and enhance a research ethos appropriate to the differentiated roles played by individual institutions; To make a positive contribution to the quality of teaching in the sector.

Project funding can range from €100,000 to €400,000 and projects have a duration of c. 3 years. Strand 1 Progress This strand provides research and development training for graduates leading to the award of a Masters Degree over a two year period. In 2006 a total of 20 new student awards were made in the 5 IOTs. They were also 17 existing student awards in place. In 2007 a further 27 students were funded in these institutions. Details are at Appendix 3.

Strand 2 Progress Institutions were successful under this programme in recent years are outlined below. No details are available yet on the 2008/09 approvals. Details are at Appendix 4. Strand 3 Progress In 2006 4 new projects were approved for the BMW region out of a total of 11 for all of the institutes. In 2007 a further three projects were approved out of a total of 10 for the sector. Locations of the approvals and amounts of funding awarded at given below. Details are at Appendix 5.

Research Facilities Enhancement Scheme 2008

Background The Call for Proposals for the Research Facilities Enhancement Scheme was announced on 11th January, 2008 with a deadline for receipt of submissions from institutions of 15th February, 2008. Under the terms and conditions of the Scheme, each institution was invited to submit up to three proposals, prioritised in accordance with their research strategies. Specifically, the Scheme aims to enable higher-education institutions to refurbish, convert, or upgrade their facilities to the standard requisite for undertaking high-quality research, and, to the same end, to enable institutions to purchase equipment. â&#x201A;Ź58 million is available for the Scheme in 2008, with the strict condition that all funding allocated be spent in this calendar year. Evaluation of Submissions Proposals were initially examined by reference to the information provided in accordance with the headings set out in the Call. All submissions deemed eligible and that addressed the requirements of the scheme were then evaluated and scored by the Panel according to the criteria set out in the Call. Results of the RFES 2008 Table 1 below summarises the proposals retained for funding under the scheme. A total of 28 institutional submissions were received; one later withdrawn from the evaluation process. Of 27 institutional submissions, 20 were recommended to receive funding and 7 were unsuccessful. Of the 20 successful institutions, three were recommended for funding for their three prioritised projects, namely UL, TCD and DCU, with the Panel made adjustments to the overall requested funding. Five institutions were recommended for funding for two projects, namely UCC, NUIM WIT, UCD and IT Sligo with the Panel made adjustments to the overall requested funding. The remainder of institutions were recommended for funding for one project with the Panel made adjustments to the overall requested funding; in all cases this was the institutionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Priority 1 project. Table 2 provides an institutional breakdown of the recommended funding. The unsuccessful institutions are: Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology, Mater Dei Institute of Education, National College of Art & Design, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin Institute of Technology, Institute of Technology, Carlow and St. Patrick's College (Pontifical University).

Table 1: Research Facilities Enhancement Scheme: Proposals retained for funding InstPriority 1 1 1 1 1 2 1

Institution UL TCD UCD NUIM UCC UL WIT

1 1 1

DundalkIT DCU CorkIT

LimerickIT

GMIT

1 1 1 1

ITSligo NUIG ITTralee AIT

DCU

ITTallaght

1 2 1 1 2 2 3

LetterkennyIT UCC ITB StPatsDrumcondra DCU NUIM UL

3 1 2 3 2

UCD Mary Immaculate College WIT TCD TCD

ITSligo

Proposal Title Composite and Glass Materials SFI Centres Enhancement Plan UCD Science Research Development Callan Building Enhancement Kane (Science) Building Food & Health Pharmaceutical and Life Science Strategic Expansion of the National Centre for Freshwater Studies Bioanalytical Science Facility BioPharma Chem Proposal Enhancement of Department of Applied Science Research Infrastructure GMIT -research facilities enhance scheme Business and Humanities Research Centre (IT Sligo Block D) Biomedical Science and Engineering Mammalian Cell Culture Facility AIT Postgraduate Research Hub Humanities & Social Sciences Research Facility ARCe - Applied Research Capacity Enhancement Refurbishment of Science Research Facilities Mammalian Cell and Microbial Culture Engineering Research Laboratory Digitised Language Research Unit School of Computing Research Facility Refurbishment of St. Anne's House CPI Energy & Sustainable Environment UCD NanoBiology & Energy Research Development Upgrading Postgraduate Research Centre Telecommunications Arts Technology Research Laboratory SPD Translational Labs Centre for Design Innovation Prototyping Laboratory (*IT Sligo Block G)

AWARD 1565000.00 3170000.00 8109000.00 2900000.00 5040000.00 2280000.00 2035000.00 800000.00

running total 1565000.00 4735000.00 12844000.00 15744000.00 20784000.00 23064000.00 25099000.00 25899000.00

3765000.00 29664000.00 325000.00 29989000.00 500000.00 30489000.00 1494900.00 31983900.00 68265.00 32052165.00 6147900.00 1024000.00 1813055.00 430000.00

38200065.00 39224065.00 41037120.00 41467120.00

1400336.00 42867456.00 278871.00 43146327.00 2211027.00 160971.00 400000.00 840000.00 2000000.00 972000.00 2060000.00

45357354.00 45518325.00 45918325.00 46758325.00 48758325.00 49730325.00 51790325.00

35000.00 51825325.00 1200000.00 1700000.00 3200000.00 71525.00

53025325.00 54725325.00 57925325.00 57996850.00

Table 2: RFES Institutional Breakdown Institution AIT CorkIT DCU DundalkIT GMIT ITB ITSligo ITTallaght ITTralee LetterkennyIT LimerickIT Mary Immaculate College NUIG NUIM StPatsDrumcondra TCD UCC UCD UL WIT Total

AWARD 1,813,055.00 325,000.00 5,035,000.00 800,000.00 1,494,900.00 160,971.00 139,790.00 1,400,336.00 1,024,000.00 278,871.00 500,000.00 35,000.00 6,147,900.00 4,900,000.00 400,000.00 8,070,000.00 7,251,027.00 10,169,000.00 4,817,000.00 3,235,000.00 57996850.00

BMW Region Institution AIT DundalkIT GMIT ITSligo LetterkennyIT NUIG Total

ITB ITTallaght ITTralee LimerickIT Mary Immaculate College NUIM StPatsDrumcondra TCD UCC UCD UL WIT Total

AWARD 1,813,055.00 800,000.00 1,494,900.00 139,790.00 278,871.00 6,147,900.00 10,674,516.00

S & E Region Institution CorkIT DCU

AWARD 325,000.00 5,035,000.00

160,971.00 1,400,336.00 1,024,000.00 500,000.00 35,000.00 4,900,000.00 400,000.00 8,070,000.00 7,251,027.00 10,169,000.00 4,817,000.00 3,235,000.00 47,322,334.00

Research Equipment Renewal Grant Scheme 2007

Under the Research Equipment Renewal Scheme 2007 c.€28m was be made available to universities and other higher education institutes for replacement, updating and renewal of research equipment. The Scheme will address the need for small and middle sized items, costing more than €15,000 and less than €1m, whilst very large equipment might be obtained though PRTLI. The funding is additional to approximately €135m which has been invested in equipment over the past eight years under the Programme for Research in Third Level Institutions. This scheme is part of a coordinated call for equipment proposals which is being extended from three agencies that support science research in Ireland: Enterprise Ireland (EI), the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and Science Foundation Ireland (SFI). The purpose of these schemes is to allow researchers in Higher Education Institutions (HEI) access to state of the art equipment that will enhance their abilities to perform highly competitive research. Each agency will provide its own scheme that will address different groups within the higher education community. The agencies will also coordinate their awards to provide synergy in funding, and ensure that the equipment provided best serves the total higher education community. The Scheme will provide equipment for researchers in all disciplines in line with identified strategic and prioritised areas of research for institutions, enhancing the quality of the equipment to support research in the higher education sector. Institutions are encouraged to procure equipment so as to address deficiencies identified in the HEA/Forfás Research Infrastructure Review or other national policy statements. An initial submission was be made by the HEIs indicating in which strategic areas equipment will be purchased and providing accurate estimates in terms of cost for each item of equipment. Allocations were derived from the number of FTE Masters and PhD students in each HEI as returned by institutions to the HEA and the Department of Education and Science in 2006. The amounts are as follows: Institution Allocation € 1,789,000 Dublin City University 2,686,425 NUI Galway 1,735,000 NUI Maynooth 378,974 Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland 6,086,000 Trinity College 3,145,000 University College Cork 6,228,000 University College Dublin 2,528,000 University of Limerick 306,604.44 Mary Immaculate College Limerick 19,000 Mater Dei Institute of Education 257,000 National College of Art and Design 184,000 Athlone Institute of Technology 289,209 Cork Institute of Technology 757,202.94 Dublin Institute of Technology 77,000 Dundalk Institute of Technology 23,000 Dun Laoghaire IADT 286,918 Galway- Mayo Institute of Technology 50,000 Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown 130,000 Institute of Technology, Carlow 132,002.53 Institute of Technology, Sligo 260,000 Institute of Technology, Tallaght 26,998.73 Institute of Technology, Tralee 31,000 Letterkenny Institute of Technology 72,618.32 Limerick Institute of Technology 544,000 Waterford Institute of Technology 28,022,952.96 TOTAL S & E Region Institution

Allocation €

Dublin City University NUI Maynooth Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Trinity College University College Cork University College Dublin University of Limerick Mary Immaculate College Limerick Mater Dei Institute of Education National College of Art and Design Cork Institute of Technology Dublin Institute of Technology Dun Laoghaire IADT Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown Institute of Technology, Carlow Institute of Technology, Tallaght Institute of Technology, Tralee Limerick Institute of Technology Waterford Institute of Technology TOTAL BMW Region Institution NUI Galway Athlone Institute of Technology Dundalk Institute of Technology Galway- Mayo Institute of Technology Institute of Technology, Sligo Letterkenny Institute of Technology TOTAL

1,789,000 1,735,000 378,974 6,086,000 3,145,000 6,228,000 2,528,000 306,604.44 19,000 257,000 289,209 757,202.94 23,000 50,000 130,000 260,000 26,998.73 72,618.32 544,000 24,625,607.43 Allocation â&#x201A;Ź 2,686,425 184,000 77,000 286,918 132,002.53 31,000 3,397,345.53

3.5.3

Micro-Enterprise – Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Introduction

The Micro-Enterprise Theme is delivered through the 22 City and County Enterprise Boards (CEBs) located in the S&E region. CEBs were established in 1993 and subsequently given statutory status under the Industrial Development Act of 1995. Their statutory function is to stimulate economic and entrepreneurial activity at local level and to develop local indigenous enterprise in the micro-business sector. Each CEB operates as a stand-alone limited company whose actions are delivered under an Operating Agreement between the individual CEB and the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. The Department supports the region’s 22 CEBs through annual Exchequer allocations which fund expenditure co-financed under the Regional OP. The CEBs operate in accordance with the Regional Operational Programme for 2007-13, under the theme of an Intervention to be known as: Entrepreneurship in Micro-Enterprises, under the Innovation and the Knowledge Economy Priority, the County and City Enterprise Boards (‘CEBs’) established at 22 locations across the S&E region deliver the actions described under this theme. The operational period for the Micro-enterprise theme commenced with effect from 1 January 2007 and will report to the Monitoring Committee under the Indicators and Cross-cutting themes in the Implementation Plan, to be agreed by the Monitoring Committee. The theme is designed to achieve over the term of the Operational Programme increased rates of business startup and expansion, and increased competitiveness, innovation and technological adaptation by micro-enterprises (the enterprise sector which encompasses small and start-up enterprises employing not more than 10 people). As part of the aim under the Priority of the Regional Operational Programme to nurture a positive culture of entrepreneurship and promote the formation of new and innovative enterprises with growth potential, the CEBs are charged with primary responsibility at local level for: • cultivating a favourable culture of entrepreneurship at local level and • supporting the development of enterprises . A suite of focused business supports and services will be made accessible by County Enterprise Boards (CEBs) to enterprises, to enable existing and start-up entities to increase their management capability, to raise productivity, to adapt Information and Communication Technology (ICT) applications and to create sustainable employment. To give effect these objectives under the Micro-enterprise theme of the 2007-13 Operational Programme, the CEBs will: • promote a local enterprise culture and entrepreneurship by means of initiatives such as ‘Start-Your-OwnBusiness’, provision of Business Information, Schools Enterprise Programmes, Awards schemes, thematic networks based on identified sectoral- and enterprise-requirements, to include addressing specific needs under networks such as ‘Women-in-Business’, ‘Plato’ and cross- Border cooperation as appropriate. • support business start-ups and expansions through financial grants; • encourage and facilitate greater innovation and effective ICT usage and adaptation and export output and sales within small businesses; • build the capacity of owner/managers of micro-enterprises through general business training, tailored mentoring Programmes and business networks. A Submission by the CEB network recommending a suite of revised Financial Instruments to facilitate Boards in meeting their objectives has been received by the Dept of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and the CEB Coordination Unit. This submission is currently being evaluated and recommendation may ensue.

Expenditure CEB CARLOW CLARE CORK CITY CORK NORTH CORK SOUTH CORK WEST DUBLIN CITY FINGAL DUBLIN SOUTH DUNLAOGH/RATH KERRY KILDARE KILKENNY LIMERICK CITY LIMERICK COUNTY MEATH TIPPERARY NORTH TIPPERARY SOUTH WATERFORD CITY WATERFORD COUNTY WEXFORD WICKLOW

M1 & M2 TOTAL* €614,574.80 €589,571.61 €515,450.12 €86,394.03 €802,179.56 €485,273.26 €1,609,652.97 €852,457.46 €772,390.31 €1,169,223.08 €488,541.99 €625,419.61 €601,438.69 €476,045.99 €584,724.83 €512,125.00 €507,028.59 €596,812.51 €485,841.29 €503,016.39 €838,479.91 €661,128.29

CEB TOTAL €14,377,770.29 * The figures above have not been adjusted to reflect pre-2007 grant approvals.

Performance Indicators Indicator Output 1. No of micro-enterprises assisted15 Of which Male Promoters Of which Female Promoters Of which Promoter is company/partnership/other 2.No of training days provided16 Male Female Other Result 1. No. of jobs created in assisted micro-enterprise17 Male F/T Female F/T Male P/T Female P/T 2.No of training recipients18 Of Which Male Of Which Female Of Which

Baseline figures

2007 Out-turn

Out-turn to end of 2007*

Midterm Target

Final Target 2013

4,029 2,647 1,202

538 393 121

4,567 3,040 1,323

5,743 3,773 1,713

8,029 5,276 2,395

180

204

257

358

74,294

26,932.5 10,785.6 16,122.1 24.6

101,226.5

149,294

249,294

24,858

1,750

26,608

28,158

32,558

14,012 7,786 2,178 3,942 57,159 22,346 34,462 351

940 532 32 524 14,891 5,778 9,055 58

14,952 8,318 2,210 4,466 72,050 28,124 43,517 409

15,872 8,822 2,466 4,462 93,169 36,447 56,152 568

18,353 10,200 2,854 5,156 141,159 56,184 84,275 700

Companies/partnership/other

* Figures calculated using baseline figure plus 2007 figures

North-South Co-Operation Cross-border trade and business co-operation is facilitated and encouraged by CEB, especially by those in border regions. CEBs actively engage and collaborate with Enterprise NI, the Northern network of Local Enterprise Agencies, in ongoing programmes such as Microtrade and Tradelinks. Joint CEB-LEA activities under the programmes aim to introduce micro-businesses in either jurisdiction to the island wide market possibilities for their products and services. Other activities promoted through the programmes include business visit exchanges, joint marketing initiatives, exhibitions, alliances and joint ventures etc. Co-operation in female entrepreneurship is encouraged through links established by the CEB Women-in-Business Networks with various women groups/organisations in NI. Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown CEB is the managing agent on behalf of the County and City Enterprise Boards for the Microtrade Programme. Microtrade is a joint initiative between IntertradeIreland, County and City Enterprise Boards and Enterprise Northern Ireland. The programme helps small businesses build contracts, markets and partnerships across the island of Ireland. Limerick County Enterprise Board actively engages with cross border companies in an experience sharing exercise regarding the development of food enterprises. The Limerick County Enterprise Board is a working partner in the Micro trade Food and Beverage Powerhouse event. This is a collaborative project between 5 Enterprise Boards - Clare, Kerry, Limerick City, Limerick County and North Tipperary. The aim of the Micro trade Event is to facilitate 50/60 micro-enterprises (circa 25 or 30 LEA Clients / 25 or 30 CEB Clients) within the Food & Beverage sector. The event will encourage cross-border collaboration, target cross border business opportunities and encourage micro-business to grow. The event will be held in County Limerick on Tuesday 28th May 2008. Meath CEB has had discussions with the East Border Region to consider Meath’s participation in Interreg 1V programmes. Five initiatives are being considered for funding, this is Meath’s first time to participate in Interreg since it was expanded to take in counties contiguous to the Border counties, Meath’s participation is being restricted to 20%.

Information & Publicity Requirements

Publicity CEBs continue to publicise their programmes and activities using local printed and electronic media. Mailshot advertising, national and local Newspaper advertorials and advertisements, as well as signage for CEBsponsored exhibitions and enterprise events constitute the bulk of CEB expenditure outgoings on publicity. Websites maintained by each CEB equally notify and publicise their activities. In each case the EU logo and accreditation is printed and displayed prominently. NDP Publicity CEBS continue to observe the appropriate display of NDP and EU co-funding text. Events Tipperary South CEB: Eleven secondary school teachers from schools throughout South Tipperary received their Post Graduate Certificates in Teaching Enterprise from Waterford Institute of Technology. This is the only programme in Ireland aimed at teaching enterprise to secondary school teachers. South Tipperary CEB hosted the programme. The programme was developed jointly by the CEBs with the support of Interreg IIIA European funding. In conjunction with the Irish Internet Association, The Board also held a seminar “Making eCommerce Work” in February 2007. The head of eBay’s Irish division along with other speakers emphasised the opportunity local business have in reaching vast markets by selling through the internet. Kerry CEB: A Franchise Seminar was held in February 2007. This seminar provided speakers from the Irish Franchise Association, presentations from Franchisors, general information on legal issues and one to one discussions.

Limerick County CEB Women in Business Initiative hosted a presentation on “Essential Keys to Financial Freedom and Success” in February 2007. This event is part of the Limerick CEBs commitment to fostering startup businesses by women in the County. West Cork CEB: In March 2007 Gerry Wycherely, Chairperson of Crafts Council of Ireland launched the Board’s Gift Business Development programme 07. EU/NDP support was acknowledged by use of the Board’s banner stand and on glass plaque’s presented to each participant. The Board also published and distributed a July Board Newsletter (Infolink) with acknowledgement of EU co-financing. This newsletter was distributed to 2,200 clients from their database and at all training courses and events. Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown CEB held its inaugural Enterprise Day in April 2007. Staff from over 20 enterprise development bodies assembled to provide a unique one-stop shop of information and advice to help people start or develop their business. Wicklow CEB: held Wicklow Enterprise Information Day in February 2007. This was a full day event with over 20 information stands and evening seminars. Clare CEB published a Newspaper Supplement in January 2007 outlining the activities and achievements of Clare CEB. Waterford City Enterprise Board: Three editions of WCEB Newsletter were distributed to over 15,000 households in the city. The Board also published an information leaflet “Setting up a New Business – The Main Requirements”. This was produced in English, Polish and Russian to recognise the diversity of our Customer base.

Future Prospects Once the Implementation Plan has been approved the CEBs will be briefed on the performance indicators, horizontal issues and cross cutting themes etc. to insure adherence to the Implementation Plan.

3.5.4 3.5.4.1

Risk Prevention & Water Protection Rural Water Source Protection

No expenditure or activity is reported in the S&E Region for 2007 for this subtheme. The sub theme is not cofinanced.

3.5.4 Risk Prevention & Water Protection 3.5.4.2 Village Sewerage Systems No expenditure or activity is reported in the S&E Region for 2007 for this subtheme. The sub theme is not cofinanced.

3.5.5` 3.5.5.1 3.5.5.2 3.5.5.3 3.5.5.4

Renewable Energy CHP & Bioheat (ReHeat) Programme Energy for Business Programme Renewable Energy Development & Deployment Strategic Development Zones

Introduction

SEI’s business industry programmes are focusing on implementing aspects of the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan. SEI has strengthened its business and industry programme and is now delivering advisory services to members of the Large Industry Energy Network and to SMEs. The Energy for Business programme involves the delivery of an integrated suite of energy support and advisory programmes to businesses in all sectors. This Programme builds on current activities and offers the support services to businesses in the industrial and commercial sectors: In December 2007, SEI published Demand Side Management in Ireland - Evaluating The Energy Efficiency Opportunities; This report, analysing the Irish residential, commercial and industrial sectors and their usage of oil, gas and electricity, considers the paths to delivering these targets and the costs and benefits entailed. The main focus of the RE RD&D programme is on stimulating the deployment of renewable energies. This involves the deployment of renewable and alternative energy technologies in residential, commercial, public, and community buildings through a combination of grant and regulatory interventions. The release of the Irish Government’s White Paper, “Delivering a Sustainable Energy Future for Ireland” led to SEI engaging in a reprioritisation of activities under SEI’s Renewable Energy R,D&D Programme. The Renewable Heat (ReHeat) Deployment Programme was launched in March 2007 with an objective of stimulating the installation of new renewable energy plants supplying space, water and process heating in the commercial, industrial, services, public sectors as well as Energy Supply Company installations by means of grant assistance. The CHP Deployment Programme provides grant support for feasibility studies and investment grants to assist the deployment of small-scale fossil fired CHP and biomass CHP systems. SEI is hosting a Combined Heat and Power Information and Demonstration Day in Galway on Friday 4 April 2008.

Expenditure

SEI’s Sustainable Energy Zone Programme did not receive a budget allocation under Budget 2008, therefore the programme has not commenced.

Performance Indicators Baseline figures

Mid-term Target (end 2009)

Final Target 2013

Energy for business programme – industry and SME programmes

The establishment of an Energy Management Advisory service for small and medium sized enterprises.

Renewable Energy RD,&D Mainstreaming of renewable heating technologies through revision of Part L of the

Cumulative Energy savings of €96m resulting from SEI’s business energy management and advice services. Cumulative Total Primary energy Equivalent (PEE) Savings of 2000 GWh resulting from SEI’s business energy management and advice services Renewable Energy RD,&D 13% of renewable energy in electricity supply National Renewable energy training capacity in place 2 full scale ocean energy

Cumulative Energy savings of €306m resulting from SEI’s business energy management and advice services. Cumulative Total Primary energy Equivalent (PEE) Savings of 6370 GWh resulting from SEI’s business energy management and advice services. Renewable Energy RD,&D 18% of renewable energy in electricity supply First ocean energy grid connection by end 2013 Self Regulated Renewable

Out-turn to end of reported year Energy for business programme – industry and SME programmes Provision of energy management advice and support services to businesses with energy spend of €900m

Renewable Energy RD,&D Ocean & Tidal Energy - 3 quarter scale ocean energy

Building Regulations 4.

ReHeat and CHP The development of a CHP and ReHeat Deployment Programme to assist in the deployment of small-scale fossil fired CHP, and biomass CHP and heating systems in industrial, commercial and public sectors. SEZ Programme The Provision of models and lessons to motivate and guide regulators, developers and consumer choice.

prototypes deployed

Energy Industry established in key technologies and sectors ReHeat and CHP In the region of 50-80 new gas fired CHP installations; 10-20 new gas fired CHP installations; 5 - 8 new AD installations approx. 200kWe; 1-3 new biomass CHP of approx. 2MWe;

SEZ Programme 9,000MWh contribution from renewable electricity within SDZ per annum 15,000 MWh contribution from renewable heat within SDZ per annum

SEZ Programme 36,000 MWh contribution from renewable electricity within the 6 SDZ per annum 60,000 MWh contribution from renewable heat within SDZ per annum

prototypes deployed ReHeat and CHP CHP and Bioheat Boiler Deployment Programme developed and launched and commitments are in place

SEZ Programme SEI’s Sustainable Energy Zone Programme did not receive a budget allocation under Budget 2008, therefore the programme has not commenced.

North-South Co-Operation

SEI chairs the implementation of the work of the Sustainable Energy Working Group (a Working Group under All Island energy Joint Steering group [JSG]). The focus of the JSG’s attention has been on elements of the allisland electricity work programme. SEI participates in the All Island Grid Study which will form the basis for ensuring the long term renewable electricity policy targets. Other activities include the aforementioned development of All Island Sustainable Energy Indicators, and the development of an INTERREG-supported Renewable Energy Installers Academy, by SEI and Action Renewables in Belfast.

Information & Publicity Requirements

Business and Industry Programme The aim of these programmes is the delivery of an integrated suite of energy support and advisory programmes to businesses in all sectors. This Programme builds on current activities and offers the following support services to businesses in the industrial and commercial sectors: • Energy Agreements – for largest energy users installing strong, structured energy management programmes to best international practice standards, based on the Irish Energy Management Standard, IS393. • Large Industry Energy Network – information and networking activities through a well established programme involving Ireland’s top 100 energy users. • Energy MAP – energy management for SMEs offered via interactive web tools and training. • SME advisory services – provision of direct advisory and assessment services to SMEs via a panel of energy-expert consultants Energy Agreements The programme’s main elements are: • Assisting companies committed to the highest level of energy efficiency strategy and aspiring to achieve the Irish Energy Management Standard, IS393. • Analysing special investigations conducted by agreements companies into their energy intensive processes to facilitate further improvements and learning for replication. Communications activity – Date

July, Aug 2007

Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line

Agreements Workshops Industry, commercial and public sectors, key players in energy business, government. Workshop No Yes on presentation & Materials July – Dec 07 Training courses –Energy Management and Energy Auditing, Boiler Efficiency, Lighting, IS393 LIEN programme managers, LIEN members, energy managers Presentation and materials No Yes

August & October 2007 LIEN Workshops (Dublin & Waterford) LIEN members, Energy Managers, Department officials Invite, Presentation, Display stand NO Yes in Presentation September 2007 Large Industry event for LIEN and Energy Agreements members “ Energy Achievements in Business” LIEN and Agreements members, CEOs and Energy Managers, Key Department officials Invite, LIEN annual report, Agreements DVD and case studies, Presentation, Display stand, press release Yes Yes – in all September 2007 CEN/ CLC BT / TF Energy Management Seminars Member Companies Invite No Yes – in all

Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line and Medium Enterprises The programme’s main elements include: • Providing energy consultancy services to businesses • Stimulating uptake of best practice techniques and technologies within smaller business • Delivering meaningful energy saving results. Communications activity – Date Occasion/Event

September 2007 SME Energy Advisors Briefing

Small

Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line

Industry, commercial and public sectors, key players in energy business, government Workshop No Yes on presentation & Materials September 2007 Pharmatex Conference Industry, commercial and public sectors, key players in energy business, government. Exhibition Yes Yes on presentation & Materials September 2007 Envirocom Conference Industry, commercial and public sectors, key players in energy business, government Exhibition Yes Yes on presentation & Materials September 2007 Energy in Business Publication Industry, commercial and public sectors, key players in energy business, government Brochure Yes Yes on Materials November 2007 Energy MAP Plastics Workshops Industry, commercial and public sectors, energy managers, Plastics sector Presentations & Plastics Sector Case Study brochure Yes Yes on brochure

Planned communications next quarter – • Energy MAP workshops • Produce promotional leaflet for SEI’s energy services for business • Special Working Group meetings & supporting materials (case studies, presentations and suite of reports) • Industrial Best Practice case studies • Energy Efficient design brochure and training materials • Development of website Renewable Heat and CHP Deployment Programmes This grant disbursement programme aims to stimulate the uptake of alternative heat technologies including combined heat and power under the CHP Deployment Programme and biomass boilers, solar thermal panels and heat pumps under the Greener Homes Scheme for householders and the Renewable Heat Deployment Programme for commercial, public and industrial and community organisations. The SEI CHP Deployment Programme provides grant support to assist the deployment of small-scale (<1MWe) fossil fired CHP and biomass (anaerobic digestion (AD) and wood residue) CHP systems. The Renewable Heat Deployment Programme is an expansion of the previous Bioheat Boiler Deployment Programme which supported woodchip or pellet boilers only. Under the scheme, grants are available for the deployment of qualifying renewable heating systems in the areas of: boilers fuelled by wood chip/pellets, solar

thermal systems and heat pumps. Similar technologies are also included under the Greener Homes Scheme which offers support specifically for householders. Communications activity – Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line

July 2007 National roadshow promotion event for ReHeat programme- at venues in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Carlow Businesses, renewable energy community Event invitation, press release, web, presentations No Yes , on invite, stands, programme leaflet and website October 2007 CHP In Ireland Co -Sponsorship with IBEC Email Invite, presentations No Yes on CHP publications

Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Planned communications next quarter – Publishing of 8 ReHeat case studies Promotion of CHP/Bioheat Programmes and events

Renewable Energy RD&D Programme The Renewable Energy RD&D programme aims to stimulate deployment of renewables close to market and address the need for information and education, which are required to raise the awareness and willingness of all relevant players to actively engage in the market. The main focus of this Programme is on stimulating increased application and deployment of renewable technologies. Programme elements include: • Research aimed at developing policy options, defining the market structure, reducing costs, improving reliability and / or opening new markets • Feasibility studies for renewable energy projects • Demonstration aimed at high risk, high reward projects, or non-technical innovation • Investigation into core areas common to many renewable technologies

Communications activity Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line

July - December 2007 Greener Homes Scheme Installers Workshops- at venues in Waterford Renewable energy suppliers and installers, consumers Invite No Yes on Stand display and brochures

Planned communications next quarter –Development of online wind atlas search function on website Launch of report on Hybrid Electric and Battery Vehicles in Ireland Horizontal Interests The principle of Environmental Sustainability is a key component of sustainable development, a principle reflected in the Government’s White Paper, “Delivering a Sustainable Energy Future for Ireland” and the National Climate

Change Strategy. Energy remains a key factor in ensuring economic growth and societal development and SEI continues to promote the decoupling of economic growth from the adverse effects of energy consumption and production. Future Prospects SEI believes it prudent to undertake a wider review of our likely expenditure on an annual basis against projected budgets allocations to all programmes. This is currently ongoing for 2008. Any adjustments required SEIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sustainable Energy Zone Programme did not receive a budget allocation under Budget 2008, therefore the subtheme has not commenced.

3.5.6

I.C.T. Accessibility - Broadband Provision & Demand Stimulation

Introduction

Under this theme, support from public funds will be provided primarily to overcome identified gaps in broadband infrastructure and services. This will be achieved through the following measures: • Completion of the Metropolitan Area Networks (MANS) in partnership with local and regional authorities. A further phase of MANs will be considered once the effectiveness of spending under the first phase has been addressed. • Scheme to subsidise the provision of broadband services in un-served areas. A new National Broadband Scheme (NBS) is currently under development to deliver broadband to areas of the country that would not be served without intervention. This will be implemented over the early part of the plan. • Facilitating access to advanced telecommunications infrastructure by SMEs. • Stimulation of demand for advanced telecommunications services among SMEs. Progress to end 2007

National Broadband Scheme (NBS) The procurement process for the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) is underway. The NBS will provide broadband services to areas that are currently unserved and will ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband in unserved areas, including unserved areas in the South and East Region are met. The first phase of the procurement process (Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ)) is now complete and the remaining three candidates have commenced “Competitive Dialogue” with the Department and are developing their proposed solutions to meet the Department’s requirements for the delivery of broadband to the unserved areas of the country. It is anticipated that a preferred bidder will be selected and appointed in June 2008. Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) A paper on Next Generation Broadband (NGB) is being finalised by the Department and will be published shortly for public consultation. The objective of the Paper is to set out a strong framework for the development of NGB in Ireland including addressing the optimum role for Government both in terms of formulating and development by the private sector and targeted direct investment. In addition, the Department is finalising a Value for Money and Policy Review (VFMPR) Phase I of the MANs Programme. Both the VFMPR Report and the policy paper on Next Generation Broadband will guide the further development of policy and future infrastructure investment decisions.

Expenditure Expenditure on MANs of €8.908m in 2007 would be eligible under this Operational Programme or the 2000-2006 OP. The Department is working with the Managing Authority to determine under what Programme the expenditure should be certified. No expenditure has been claimed to date under the NBS.

3.5.7 3.5.7.1

Gateways & Hub Challenge Fund Urban Regeneration

The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government is currently finalising proposals for the Urban Regeneration Scheme 2007 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2013.

3.5.7 3.5.7.2

Gateways & Hub Challenge Fund Public Transport

The Department of Transport will deliver a range of measures among which will be the removal of speed restrictions at Limerick Junction. One of the objectives of the theme is the increase in use of public transport on rail services through Limerick Junction and the decrease in journey times in respect of services through Limerick Junction

3.5.7 3.5.7.3 3.5.7.4

Gateways & Hub Challenge Fund Sports and Cultural Facilities Arts Capital Programme

Introduction

The Intermediary Body (Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism) are currently drafting the Guidelines and application forms for the upcoming Arts Capital Programme, also known as ACCESS (Arts and Culture Capital Enhancement Support Scheme). It is anticipated that the scheme will be announced in April 2008 with applications being accepted from September 2008. It is hoped to announce the successful applicants in late 2008 or early 2009.

Expenditure To date no expenditure has occurred, as applications have not yet been accepted for the new scheme. No expenditure is expected to take place until 2009 at the earliest, as successful applicants will not be informed until end 2008 or early 2009.

Performance Indicators There is no progress to report as no projects have yet been awarded funding. Indicator Baseline Mid-term Final Target figures Target 2013 1. Provision of high quality multi-disciplinary 5 6 7 arts and culture facilities 2. Improved opportunities to participate in 5 6 7 arts and cultural activities

Out-turn to end of reported year 0 0

North-South Co-Operation No progress to report.

Information & Publicity Requirements The Department and Beneficiary Bodies will ensure compliance with the Information and Publicity requirements as set out under articles 5 to 9 of Regulation (EC) 1828/2006. The contribution of the National Development Plan 2007-2013 and EU Structural Funds will be acknowledged in all promotional material, annual reports, letters of offer etc, by use of appropriate logo and text references. The relevant Structural Funds regulations on Information and Publicity will be complied with in this regard. The beneficiary list will be published on the Department's website.

Horizontal Interests There is no progress to report as no projects have yet been funded. However the scheme does contribute to the following horizontal issues under the Operational programme: Social Inclusion One of the cross-cutting objectives of the scheme is to contribute to the achievement of the horizontal principle of social inclusion through the provision of facilities with universal access, including access for disabled persons. Universal access, with particular regard to disabled persons, is a condition of grant-aid provided under the scheme. As part of the selection criteria projects will be expected to have an anti-discrimination policy or rules in place before funding is approved. This policy is expected to address all possible forms of discrimination e.g. gender, religion, ethnicity etc. and details how the organisation seeking funding intends to prevent such discrimination. Local authority and other public bodies, to be co-funded by the EU will be expected to implement their existing policies on social inclusion. One of the stated objectives of the Government's Arts policy, which is taken account of when selecting projects under the scheme, is to encourage and support the strategic development of the arts in local communities, both geographic and communities of interest, for the disadvantaged and for minority groups. Policy on the arts is to promote and strengthen the arts in all its forms, increase access to and participation in the arts, and to make the arts an integral and valued part of our national life. Consequently, all funding allocated by the Department of

Arts, Sport and Tourism for arts and cultural facilities is aimed at, inter alia, addressing the issues of cultural participation, access and social inclusion. Broad Equality Another cross-cutting objective of the scheme is to ensure broad equality. Equality principles in Ireland are implemented through the actions against discrimination in the 9 areas of: gender, marital status family, age, disability, race, sexual orientation, religion and the travelling community. All projects supported under this intervention will be expected to ensure compliance in this regard. As part of the selection criteria projects will be expected to have an anti-discrimination policy or rules in place before funding is approved.

Future Prospects

No comment can be made until applications have been received and projects selected. As the scheme is demand led the prospects for co-funding will depend on the quality of applications received. An independent selection committee who will make recommendations to the Minister will evaluate all applications. The Minister will make the final decision in relation to successful projects.

Any adjustments required No adjustments required at present.

3.5.7 3.5.7.5 3.5.7.6

Gateways & Hub Challenge Fund Sports and Cultural Facilities Sports Capital Programme

Introduction

Through the Sports Capital Programme (SCP) the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism (DAST) helps the development of the social infrastructure of communities and contributes towards making locations more attractive places to live, work and invest. The SCP allocates funding to projects that are directly related to the provision of sports facilities and are of a capital nature. Under the SCP funding is allocated to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. The EU co-financed element of the SCP will fund LA municipal multi-sport facilities in the hubs and gateways in the Southern and Eastern region. Through the provision of funding to municipal multi-sport facilities, the SCP contributes towards improving the fabric of towns located in the Southern and Eastern Region and identified as gateways and hubs by the National Spatial Strategy19. The 2008 SCP was advertised in the national press on 13 and 14 January 2008. By the closing date 1,450 applications had been received. The assessment of these applications is ongoing and an announcement of provisional allocations will follow in due course.

Expenditure

Until such time as the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism announces provisional allocations and grantees have complied with all the terms and conditions of the programme, no expenditure will be incurred on projects eligible under the EU co-financed elements of the SCP.

Performance Indicators

Given the necessity for grantees to comply with the terms and conditions of the SCP and the long lead in time necessary in the planning, design and construction of large municipal multi-sport facilities it is highly unlikely that any grantees will be in a position to draw down funding in 2008 or 2009. Indicator Baseline Mid-term Final Target Out-turn to end figures Target 2013 of reported year 1. Municipal Multi-sports facilities 3 4 5 0 built 2. Increased opportunities to 3 4 5 0 participate in a range of sports

North-South Co-Operation

No progress to report as no projects have been funded.

Horizontal Interests No progress to report as no projects have been funded

Future Prospects

No comments on future progress can be made until after the assessment of applications and the announcement of allocations by the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism under the 2008 and subsequent rounds of the SCPs.

3.5.7

Gateways & Hub Challenge Fund Sports and Cultural Facilities Swimming Pool Capital Programme

3.5.7.7 Introduction

Two meetings were held with the S&E Regional Assembly personnel and the S&E OP 2007-2013 for The Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme of the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism was drawn up. In the Plan, Performance Indicators and Horizontal issues were addressed. This sub-theme will not be co-financed.

Expenditure

The Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme is a demand led scheme. Therefore it is difficult to predict the levels of demand in the next 5 years. However since the present scheme is closed since July 2000 even if a new scheme is launched before the end of 2008 demand is likely to be slow initially. Also swimming pools would not be top of Local Authority list of priorities in these more straitened times. The grant now amounts to no more than 50% of the cost of these projects so Local Authorities have in the past relied on funds from their Development Levies which are now expected to decline in line with the building industry. Project level activity is not anticipated to commence until late 2009 with first drawdown of grant not expected until 2010, accordingly no project activity is anticipated in 2008, therefore forecast expenditure for 2008 is nil.

Performance Indicators Class

Indicator

Output Result

Number of public pools funded Number of public pools open to the public Decrease in ratio of number of persons per public pool

Impact

Baseline

Mid-Term Dec ‘09

Final 2013

4 pools 1 pool per 58k population

5 pools 1 pool per 50k population

Outturn to 31/12/07 0 0

Information & Publicity Requirements Horizontal Interests •

• • • • • •

•

Social Inclusion Promoting equality of access and removing barriers to participation. Under the LASPP the grant rate is higher, where a project is located in or within the catchment of a disadvantaged area. This recognises the importance of concentrating on those areas of specifically identified disadvantage, as in and adjacent to RAPID areas, so as to ensure that all sections of the community can obtain access to pool facilities at reasonable cost and at reasonable times and to achieve an equality of pool provision throughout all of the community. Access for people with disabilities. New grant within the LASPP to enhance disabled access. This will allow Local Sports Partnerships to promote healthier lifestyles, combating obesity and promoting activity amongst the elderly. Will help with the promotion of The National Children’s Strategy. Promote the Aquatic Strategy of the Primary Educational Curriculum and water safety. Promote activity amongst disabled people. Help young people to learn to swim and promote water safety. Broader Equality Equality principles in Ireland are implemented through the actions against discrimination in the nine areas of: gender, marital status, family, age, disability, race, sexual orientation, religion, and the travelling community. All projects supported under the LASPP will be expected to ensure compliance in this regard. The National Women’s Strategy 2007-2016 referred to increasing participation of girls in

sport and the provision of swimming pools will assist with this objective. There is increased interest in combating obesity and leading healthier lifestyles.

Future Prospects

A Value for Money and Policy Review Report has been carried out on the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme, the outcome of which will be used to assist in formulating future policy in this area. This report examined, amongst other things, how the programme has worked to date, and what changes, if any, are required to ensure its effectiveness and efficient delivery. The report is currently awaiting approval and will then be published as soon as possible. Following consideration of the recommendations in the report it is intended to launch a new round of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme. Because of this project level activity is not anticipated to commence until late 2009 with first drawdown of grant not expected until 2010 as already reported in the table in the Operational Plan. Accordingly no project activity is anticipated in 2008. Forecast expenditure for 2008 is nil.

3.5.8

Technical Assistance

Introduction

The objective of the technical assistance priority theme is to support the following activities: • Preparation, selection, appraisal and monitoring of assistance; • Meetings of the OP Monitoring Committee and any sub-committees, including the approved costs of the EU Operational Committees of the Regional Authorities in the S&E Region; • Financial management and control, audits and checks on operations; • OP-level information actions in accordance with the Communications Action Plan; • Evaluations of the programme or aspects of it; • Establishment and operation of the computerised system for data exchange. Expenditure

Community Contribution 13,811.75

National 22,534.97

Total Expenditure 36,346.72

Performance Indicators Indicator 1. Number of Monitoring Committee Meetings held 2. Number of Evaluations & Studies conducted 3. Verification Audits & Closure audits 4. Number of annual publicity events

Baseline figures 0 0 0 0

Mid-term Target 3 2 3 3

Final Target 2013 7 3 7 7

Out-turn to end of reported year 1 0 0 0

North-South Co-Operation The Special EU Programmes Body will be represented on the Monitoring Committee. As part of its brief, the Monitoring Committee will review the scope for greater North/South co-operation and the extent to which it is being realised in practice. Joint initiatives which support greater co-operation with the authorities in Northern Ireland (e.g. conferences or seminars) on matters of mutual benefit may be funded from the Technical Assistance Measure.

Information & Publicity Requirements

The Technical Assistance priority will support the carrying out of a wide range of activities in order to ensure compliance with the Information and Publicity requirements as set out in Regulation (EC) 1828/2006 and detailed in the Communications Action Plan for the OP.

Horizontal Interests

The activities funded under the measure are aimed at ensuring that the measures and the OP generally are achieving their objectives, which include the horizontal priorities of environmental sustainability, equality, including geneder equality and social inclusion.

Future Prospects

Funds will be used to finance the preparatory, management, monitoring, evaluation, and information / publicity and financial control activities of the Operational Programmes together with activities to reinforce the administrative capacity for implementing the Funds. The Priority will also cover the cost of recoupment of approved costs of the EU Operational Committees of the Regional Authorities (at NUTS III Level). The Technical Assistance Priority will also co-finance the appropriate costs of the ERDF Financial Control Unit, Information Unit, ICT Unit and the costs of the management controls undertaken by the Managing Authority.

Any adjustments required No adjustments to the Implementation Plan are foreseen at present.

3.6 Qualitative Analysis Implementation commenced on three themes in 2007. Expenditure of â&#x201A;Ź99,599,609.05 is reported to date which represents 15% of the OP total. At this early stage in the Operational Programme it is premature to try to present a meaningful analysis of the progress achieved as only two themes reported expenditure. An additional 538* enterprises were assisted. This directly contributes to the Lisbon strategy of increasing adaptability of enterprises. The Microenterprise theme continues to build on the capacity developed in the 2000-2006 OP with respect to the promotion of equal opportunity between men & women. * This figure will be clarified when the expenditure through the IT System. 3.7 Demonstration of the Effects of the Promotion of Equal Opportunities Information on the promotion of equal opportunities and the application of the horizontal principles is presented in section 2.1.15 3.8 Share of priority allocations used in accordance with Article 34(2) Complementary financing of actions that fall within the scope of assistance under the European Social Fund arises in Priority 1 in the micro-enterprise theme from the financing of training programmes which form part of the suite of business development supports provided by the County Enterprise Boards. The amount of financing as a proportion of the priority total will be captured by the IT system as part of its project accounting, monitoring and financial control functions, and will be reported accordingly.

4 ESF Programmes: Coherence and Concentration The Southern & Eastern Regional Operational Programme is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund and the Irish Exchequer. However, it is intended to utilise the flexibility provided for under article 34(2) of Council Regulation (EC) No 1083/2006 which allows an ERDF Programme to finance actions which fall within the scope of the ESF, subject to a limit of 10% of Community funding for each priority of the Operational Programme. In accordance with Commission Regulation (EC) No 1828/2006, such expenditure will be reported to the Commission through the IT system which is currently being developed.

5. ERDF/CF Programmes: Major Projects There were no major projects notified to the Commission in 2007. It is anticipated that the level of public expenditure required for the rollout of the National Broadband Scheme might exceed â&#x201A;Ź50 million nationally. Preliminary discussions have taken place with DG Regio in order to ascertain the notification requirements for major projects will apply to the Scheme in the event that its budget exceeds the â&#x201A;Ź50 million threshold.

6. Information & Publicity Implementation of the Communication Plan The Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly as Managing Authority for the Southern & Eastern Regional Operational Programme 2007-2013 has contributed to the preparation of the Communication Plan for the NSRF 2007 – 2013. This plan includes a wide range of information and publicity actions to be implemented at Operational Programme level. This plan has been submitted to the European Commission. The Communication Plan sets out the information and publicity strategy for Ireland’s National Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF) and for the two Regional Operational Programmes (OPs). It outlines how the Managing Authorities and other bodies responsible for administering and delivering the programmes will provide information on the Operational Programmes and publicise their outcomes and achievements. This Communication Plan has been drawn up in accordance with the Commission Implementation Regulation (EC) No 1828/2006. Aims of the Communication Plan: The aims of this Communication Plan are to increase public awareness, transparency and visibility of the Operational Programmes and of EU Cohesion and Regional Policy at National, Regional and Operation level. It will do this by: Highlighting the role and contribution of Ireland’s EU Structural Funds Programmes 2007-2013 and the progress achieved; Emphasizing the joint actions taken by the EU and Ireland and the results accomplished; Ensuring that assistance from the Funds is transparent by providing potential beneficiaries with clear and detailed information on conditions of eligibility and procedures for applying for funding; Supporting the implementation of the NSRF and the OPs by increasing the understanding of the objectives of the programmes among potential beneficiaries, the general public, implementing bodies, the social partners and other interested organisations; Disseminating information on Ireland’s EU Structural Funds Programme 2007-2013 widely through all available communication channels; Ensuring compliance with the EU Regulations; and Ensuring that the responsibilities of beneficiaries, as specified in Article 8 of Commission Implementation Regulation (EC) 1828/2006, are understood and applied. During the twelve months ended 31st December, 2007 a host of activities were engaged in and every opportunity was availed of to increase public awareness of NSRF and EU funding. Activities Undertaken in twelve months ending 31st December 2007 Signing of the new S&E Regional Operational Programme The new Regional Operational Programme was signed by the EU Commissioner Danuta Hubner in Brussels on the 14th December 2007. Councillor James Holloway, Leas Cathaoirleach of the S&E Regional Assembly and Mr. Ivan Grimes, Assistant Director, S&E Regional Assembly, attended the signing ceremony.

Launch of the S&E Regional Operational Programme and Website The Southern & Eastern Regional Operational Programme 2007-13 was formally launched by the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, Brian Cowen TD, in Tullamore, Co Offaly, on 17th December 2007. The new programme which was signed by EU Commissioner Danuta Hubner in Brussels on 14th December 2007 involves an investment of 669€m in the S&E region over the next 7 years and will complement the exchequer-funded National Development Plan. In addition the Tánaiste also launched the new S&E website which contains details and guidance on the information and publicity guidelines.

Preparation of the new Regional Operational Programme 2007 - 2013 Following the preparation of the draft programme, the Managing Authority placed notices in the national press, advising the public of the consultation process and the availability of the programme documents on the Managing Authority’s website. In addition, and in accordance with article 11 of the General Regulation, regarding the engagement of appropriate partners in the preparation of OPs, the Managing Authority circulated draft copies of this OP and Environmental Report, prepared in compliance with the SEA Directive, to all the relevant Departments and Agencies. Distribution of the new Operational Programme Following the launch of the new Regional Operational Programme over 500 copies were circulated to all the relevant stake holders. In addition a copy of the Operational Programme is available to download from our website and is also available in Irish. EU Commission Representation in Ireland Mr. Martin Territt, Director of the European Commission Representation in Ireland, addressed the Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly Meeting on the 7th September 2007 on EU Policy, the Lisbon Reform Treaty and Regional Development. Presentations have been made during this period are as follows: Presentation Title Date 16 January 2007 Preparation for the OP 07-13

Presentation to Dublin Regional Authority

01 February 2007

Preparing OP 07-13

IPA

16 February 2007

Members Presentation on the NewOP

Assembly Members

22 February 2007

Hasenwinkel Workshop-S&ERegionalOP

Structural Funds Workshop

15 June 2007

Preparation of the Regional Operational Programme 2007-2013

IPA

27 June 2007

OP 2007-2013 management and implementation

Slovenian Delegation

11 September 2007

Managing structural & cohesion funds sharing the Irish experience07

Leuven, Brussels

12 September 2007

Ports Financial Management Training

Dept. Ag. Fisheries & Food

Meetings- the following meetings took place during the period. 12 January 2007 Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly Meeting 02 February 2007

Agriculture & Rural Development Sub-Committee

02 February 2007

Planning & Infrastructure Sub-Committee

09 February 2007

Employment & Social Inclusion Sub-Committee

09 February 2007

Enterprise & Productive Investment Sub-Committee

16 February 2007

Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly Meeting

09 March 2007

Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly Meeting

12 April 2007

Employment & Social Inclusion Sub-Committee

19 April 2007

Agriculture & Rural Development Sub-Committee

27 April 2007

Enterprise & Productive Investment Sub-Committee

27 April 2007

Planning & Infrastructure Sub-Committee

08 June 2007

Agriculture & Rural Development Sub-Committee

08 June 2007

Enterprise & Productive Investment Sub-Committee

08 June 2007

Planning & Infrastructure Sub-Committee

12 June 2007

Employment & Social Inclusion Sub-Committee

22 June 2007

Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly Meeting

22 June 2007

Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly Corporate Committee

13 July 2007

Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly Meeting

07 September 2007

Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly Corporate Committee

09 September 2007

Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly Meeting

11 October 2007

Agriculture & Rural Development Sub-Committee

11 October 2007

Enterprise & Productive Investment Sub-Committee

11 October 2007

Planning & Infrastructure Sub-Committee

17 October 2007

Employment & Social Inclusion Sub-Committee

09 November 2007

Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly Meeting

09 November 2007

Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly Corporate Committee

05 December 2007

Employment & Social Inclusion Sub-Committee

05 December 2007

Agriculture & Rural Development Sub-Committee

14 December 2007

Enterprise & Productive Investment Sub-Committee

14 December 2007

Planning & Infrastructure Sub-Committee

National Press Releases and Regional Media Interviews Radio Interviews were given by Mr. Stephen Blair and Mr. Simon Baily during the course of the year to Waterford Local Radio. The following Press Releases were issued to National Media outlets. 17 December 2007

Official Launch of the Operational Programme 2007-2013

17 October 2007

First meeting of the 07-13 Monitoring Committee

Where public notices appear relating to co-financed interventions/themes supported under the ERDF which do not display the appropriate logos, or display them incorrectly, or do not give due recognition to ERDF funding, it is the policy of the S&E Regional Assembly to bring this to the attention of the relevant Department, Agency, Implementing or Intermediary Body so that the error is not repeated. The National, Regional and local papers are scanned on a daily basis for articles and advertisements regarding the S&E Regional Operational Programme. Such articles are held on file for future reference. Public Notices/Advertisements The following public notice was issued by the Assembly during the period. 05 January 2007 Public Notice re Consultation on the new OP Performance Indicator Table

Number of people dealt with/accessing information (website and public information office) breakdown by Operational Programme Number of Annual Events Number of seminars/presentations Number of public launches/events/press releases/interviews of interventions by Operational Programme Level of satisfaction with seminars and related documentation Level of overall public awareness of the EU Structural Funds Programme*

Baseline 2007

Mid-Term 2010

Final Target 2013

3,000 per month

0 45 105 This is a monitoring indicator designed to monitor transparency of the individual measures. Targets have not been set.

Outcome Dec 2007

2 10 45

Level of awareness of the role of the S&E OP Level of awareness of the individual Funds (ESF & ERDF)* This is a monitoring indicator designed to monitor transparency of the individual measures. Targets have not been set. * A public awareness survey will be commissioned. The survey will provide figures for public awareness and enable targets to be set Local press coverage by operational/programme/priority

Theme level Information & Publicity Reports Under the Micro-Enterprise – Innovation and Entrepreneurship theme CEBs continue to publicise their programmes and activities using local printed and electronic media. Mailshot advertising, national and local Newspaper advertorials and advertisements, as well as signage for CEB-sponsored exhibitions and enterprise events constitute the bulk of CEB expenditure outgoings on publicity. Websites maintained by each CEB equally notify and publicise their activities. In each case the EU logo and accreditation is printed and displayed prominently. The following Events were reported Tipperary South CEB: Eleven secondary school teachers from schools throughout South Tipperary received their Post Graduate Certificates in Teaching Enterprise from Waterford Institute of Technology. This is the only programme in Ireland aimed at teaching enterprise to secondary school teachers. South Tipperary CEB hosted the programme. The programme was developed jointly by the CEBs with the support of Interreg IIIA European funding. In conjunction with the Irish Internet Association, The Board also held a seminar “Making eCommerce Work” in February 2007. The head of eBay’s Irish division along with other speakers emphasised the opportunity local business have in reaching vast markets by selling through the internet. Kerry CEB: A Franchise Seminar was held in February 2007. This seminar provided speakers from the Irish Franchise Association, presentations from Franchisors, general information on legal issues and one to one discussions. Limerick County CEB Women in Business Initiative hosted a presentation on “Essential Keys to Financial Freedom and Success” in February 2007. This event is part of the Limerick CEBs commitment to fostering startup businesses by women in the County. West Cork CEB: In March 2007 Gerry Wycherely, Chairperson of Crafts Council of Ireland launched the Board’s Gift Business Development programme 07. EU/NDP support was acknowledged by use of the Board’s banner stand and on glass plaque’s presented to each participant. The Board also published and distributed a July Board Newsletter (Infolink) with acknowledgement of EU co-financing. This newsletter was distributed to 2,200 clients from their database and at all training courses and events. Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown CEB held its inaugural Enterprise Day in April 2007. Staff from over 20 enterprise development bodies assembled to provide a unique one-stop shop of information and advice to help people start or develop their business. Wicklow CEB: held Wicklow Enterprise Information Day in February 2007. This was a full day event with over 20 information stands and evening seminars. Clare CEB published a Newspaper Supplement in January 2007 outlining the activities and achievements of Clare CEB. Waterford City Enterprise Board: Three editions of WCEB Newsletter were distributed to over 15,000 households in the city. The Board also published an information leaflet “Setting up a New Business – The Main Requirements”. This was produced in English, Polish and Russian to recognise the diversity of our Customer base. The aim of the Renewable Energy Theme is the delivery of an integrated suite of energy support and advisory programmes to businesses in all sectors. The Programme builds on current activities and offers the following support services to businesses in the industrial and commercial sectors: • Energy Agreements – for largest energy users installing strong, structured energy management programmes to best international practice standards, based on the Irish Energy Management Standard, IS393.

• • •

Large Industry Energy Network – information and networking activities through a well established programme involving Ireland’s top 100 energy users. Energy MAP – energy management for SMEs offered via interactive web tools and training. SME advisory services – provision of direct advisory and assessment services to SMEs via a panel of energy-expert consultants

Energy Agreements The programme’s main elements are: • Assisting companies committed to the highest level of energy efficiency strategy and aspiring to achieve the Irish Energy Management Standard, IS393. • Analysing special investigations conducted by agreements companies into their energy intensive processes to facilitate further improvements and learning for replication. Communications activity – Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line

July, Aug 2007 Agreements Workshops Industry, commercial and public sectors, key players in energy business, government. Workshop No Yes on presentation & Materials July – Dec 07 Training courses –Energy Management and Energy Auditing, Boiler Efficiency, Lighting, IS393 LIEN programme managers, LIEN members, energy managers Presentation and materials No Yes

The Large Industry Energy Network The programme’s main elements are: • Reporting energy performance progress and setting realistic targets • Sharing information and replicating best practice, via workshops, courses, studies and awards • Improving competitiveness by reducing energy costs • Assisting companies in meeting environmental and regulatory requirements Communications activity – August & October 2007 Date Occasion/Event LIEN Workshops (Dublin & Waterford) Participants LIEN members, Energy Managers, Department officials Communications Invite, Presentation, Display stand Copies of supporting materials NO NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Yes in Presentation Date September 2007 Occasion/Event Large Industry event for LIEN and Energy Agreements members “ Energy Achievements in Business” Participants LIEN and Agreements members, CEOs and Energy Managers, Key Department officials Communications Invite, LIEN annual report, Agreements DVD and case studies, Presentation, Display stand, press release Copies of supporting materials Yes NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Yes – in all

Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line

September 2007 CEN/ CLC BT / TF Energy Management Seminars Member Companies Invite No Yes – in all

Small and Medium Enterprises The programme’s main elements include: • Providing energy consultancy services to businesses • Stimulating uptake of best practice techniques and technologies within smaller business • Delivering meaningful energy saving results. Communications activity – Date September 2007 Occasion/Event SME Energy Advisors Briefing Participants Industry, commercial and public sectors, key players in energy business, government Communications Workshop Copies of supporting materials No NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Yes on presentation & Materials Date September 2007 Occasion/Event Pharmatex Conference Participants Industry, commercial and public sectors, key players in energy business, government. Communications Exhibition Copies of supporting materials Yes NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Yes on presentation & Materials Date September 2007 Occasion/Event Envirocom Conference Participants Industry, commercial and public sectors, key players in energy business, government Communications Exhibition Copies of supporting materials Yes NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Yes on presentation & Materials Date September 2007 Occasion/Event Energy in Business Publication Participants Industry, commercial and public sectors, key players in energy business, government Communications Brochure Copies of supporting materials Yes NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Yes on Materials Date November 2007 Occasion/Event Energy MAP Plastics Workshops Participants Industry, commercial and public sectors, energy managers, Plastics sector Communications Presentations & Plastics Sector Case Study brochure Copies of supporting materials Yes NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Yes on brochure Planned communications next quarter – Energy MAP workshops Produce promotional leaflet for SEI’s energy services for business Special Working Group meetings & supporting materials (case studies, presentations and suite of reports)

Industrial Best Practice case studies Energy Efficient design brochure and training materials Development of website

Renewable Heat and CHP Deployment Programmes This grant disbursement programme aims to stimulate the uptake of alternative heat technologies including combined heat and power under the CHP Deployment Programme and biomass boilers, solar thermal panels and heat pumps under the Greener Homes Scheme for householders and the Renewable Heat Deployment Programme for commercial, public and industrial and community organisations. The SEI CHP Deployment Programme provides grant support to assist the deployment of small-scale (<1MWe) fossil fired CHP and biomass (anaerobic digestion (AD) and wood residue) CHP systems. The Renewable Heat Deployment Programme is an expansion of the previous Bioheat Boiler Deployment Programme which supported woodchip or pellet boilers only. Under the scheme, grants are available for the deployment of qualifying renewable heating systems in the areas of: boilers fuelled by wood chip/pellets, solar thermal systems and heat pumps. Similar technologies are also included under the Greener Homes Scheme which offers support specifically for householders. Communications activity – Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line

Planned communications next quarter – Publishing of 8 ReHeat case studies Promotion of CHP/Bioheat Programmes and events Renewable Energy RD&D Programme The Renewable Energy RD&D programme aims to stimulate deployment of renewables close to market and address the need for information and education, which are required to raise the awareness and willingness of all relevant players to actively engage in the market. The main focus of this Programme is on stimulating increased application and deployment of renewable technologies. Programme elements include: Research aimed at developing policy options, defining the market structure, reducing costs, improving reliability and / or opening new markets Feasibility studies for renewable energy projects Demonstration aimed at high risk, high reward projects, or non-technical innovation Investigation into core areas common to many renewable technologies

Communications activity Date Occasion/Event Participants Communications Copies of supporting materials NDP accreditation, EU stars & strap-line

July - December 2007 Greener Homes Scheme Installers Workshops- at venues in Waterford Renewable energy suppliers and installers, consumers Invite No Yes on Stand display and brochures

Planned communications next quarter – Development of online wind atlas search function on website Launch of report on Hybrid Electric and Battery Vehicles in Ireland Under the Arts Capital Programme of the Gateway and Hubs Challenge Fund the Department of Arts Sports & Tourism and Beneficiary Bodies will ensure compliance with the Information and Publicity requirements as set out under articles 5 to 9 of Regulation (EC) 1828/2006. The contribution of the National Development Plan 2007-2013 and EU Structural Funds will be acknowledged in all promotional material, annual reports, letters of offer etc, by use of appropriate logo and text references. The relevant Structural Funds regulations on Information and Publicity will be complied with in this regard. The beneficiary list will be published on the Department's website. Under the Sports Capital Programme of the Gateway and Hubs Challenge Fund the Department of Arts Sports & Tourism and Beneficiary Bodies will ensure compliance with the Information and Publicity requirements as set out under articles 5 to 9 of Regulation (EC) 1828/2006. The contribution of the National Development Plan 2007-2013 and EU Structural Funds will be acknowledged in all promotional material, annual reports, letters of offer etc, by use of appropriate logo and text references. The relevant Structural Funds regulations on Information and Publicity will be complied with in this regard. The beneficiary list will be published on the Department's website. The Technical Assistance Priority will support the carrying out of a wide range of activities in order to ensure compliance with the Information and Publicity requirements as set out in Regulation (EC) 1828/2006 and detailed in the Communications Action Plan for the OP.

Financial Draw Down

Euro Millions

Paid out by Certifying Authority

Paid by the Commission

ERDF

Outstanding Claims with Commission

Date of outstanding claim submitted

Nil

An advance payment of â&#x201A;Ź2,932,070.68 was received by the Certifying Authority in November 2007 in respect of a 2% advance on ERDF funding.

9. Context Indicators Category

Indicator

Baseline Value

Macroeconomic

GDP/Capita, S&E Region Total Employment in S&E Region Gross Output per person engaged in Industry in S&E Region Innovation Activity Rate, S&E Region

€35,727

Priority 1

Priority 2

Priority 3

1,539,800 € 385,575

Updated Indicators (April 2008) 38,203 (2005) 1,582,000 (2007) €546,559 (2005)

52.2%

52.6%

Entrepreneurial Activity Rate in Ireland

9.8%

(2002-2004) (2006)

Average Drinking water compliance level in S&E Region Energy Efficiency in Building stock in Ireland

96.4% (national)

2004

Tbd

tbd

% of Businesses with Broadband in Ireland

48% (2005)

66% (2007)

Population of Gateways and Hubs

Gateways: Dublin 112m Cork 123,062 Limerick 54,023 Waterford 44,594 Tbd

Gateways: Dublin 1.19m Cork 119,418 Limerick 52,539 Waterford 45,748 2006 tbd

Public Transport Usage

Source

CSO (2008) QNHS Qtr 4 2007 CSO (2007) CSO, Census of Industrial Production (2006) Forfás Innovation Survey (2006) National Competitiveness Council, Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (2006) Environmental Protection Agency (2005) Sustainable Energy Ireland

National Competitiveness Council, Eurostat Info Society (2006) CSO, Census of Population (2006)

Department of Transport

Annex 1

MEMBERSHIP S&E REGIONAL OPERATIONAL PROGRAMME MONITORING COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP 2007 Mr Stephen Blair, Chair Mr. Ivan Grimes Cllr Conal Kavanagh, Cathaoirleach Cllr Mary Freehill Cllr Kevin Murphy Cllr Peter Considine Cllr Lettie Mc Carthy Cllr John Ryan IMPLEMENTING DEPARTMENTS Mr Pat Casey Mr Vincent Landers Mr Tomas Sheehan Mr Paul Doyle Mr Kieran Duffy Mr Frank Gallagher Ms Mary Nash Ms Eunice Nichols Mr TJ Fleming Mr Eoin McGuill Mr Tom Finn

Director Regional Assembly Secretary to the Committee Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly

Department of Finance Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment Department of Education and Science Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism Department of Transport Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Department of Agriculture. Fisheries and Food Iarnród Éireann

REGIONAL INTERESTS Cllr John Mulvihill Cllr Lilly Wallace Cllr Bronwen Maher Cllr Paddy O’Callaghan Cllr Paul Kelly

Cathaoirleach, South-West Regional Authority Cathaoirleach, Mid-West Regional Authority Cathaoirleach, Dublin Regional Authority Cathaoirleach, South-East Regional Authority Cathaoirleach, Mid-East Regional Authority

SOCIAL PARTNERS Mr Turlough O’Sullivan Mr David Begg Mr Eddie Punch Mr Seamus O’Donoghue Ms Catherine Buckley Mr Thomas Cooke Mr TJ Maher Mr Ivan Cooper Ms Cora Horgan

Director General, IBEC General Secretary, ICTU Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association Irish Co-operative Organisation Society A/Chief Executive, Macra na Feirme Irish Creamery and Milk Suppliers association Irish Farmers Association Irish Social Finance Centre Irish Social Finance Centre

HORIZONTAL INTERESTS Mr Ian Keating Ms Pauline Moreau Mr Gerry Mangan

Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform Office of Social Inclusion

NORTH SOUTH CO-OPERATION Mr Pat Colgan

Special EU Programmes Body

ADVISORS TO THE MONITORING COMMITTEE Mr Stephan Langley DG Regio Mr John Byrne Director, Mid-East Regional Authority Mr Tom Byrne Director, South-West Regional Authority Mr Liam Conneally Director, Mid-West Regional Authority Mr John McAleer Director, South-East Regional Authority Ms Patricia Potter Director, Dublin Regional Authority Mr Noel Tallon ERDF Certifying Authority, Department of Finance Ms Jennifer Melia Enterprise Ireland Mr Tom Boland Higher Education Authority Mr Matthew Kennedy Sustainable Energy Ireland Mr Cathal Kelly Equality Authority Ms Julie Smyth Combat Poverty Agency Mr Frank Convery Comhar Ms Jane Brogan Environmental Protection Agency

Annex 11 Micro-Enterprise Case Study RENAISSANCE MAN PHOTO: Eoin Costello, Managing Director, Novara.ie Dan King, Hosting and Managed Infrastructure Manager with Digiweb Eoin Costello has always been a busy man. He’s just sold the web hosting business he’s nurtured for eight years, Novara Ltd, to Digiweb, Ireland’s largest broadband provider. It represents another giant step for an entrepreneur whose energy and drive to succeed have taken him from the hectic investment rooms of London’s City, through the subtleties of handling a family business, and on to the challenges of the ever-evolving internet and the hardneck world of e-commerce. In the maelstrom of such demanding occupations, he also succeeded in getting elected to Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, and has served on the boards and chaired a number of enterprise and internet bodies. Now in his early forties, he has embraced a lifestyle of constant re-invention, and the rewards have been both commercially and personally satisfying. At some point every entrepreneur entertains the idea that their business may be snapped up by another company. It is surely the ultimate praise that another company is so impressed by the progress and position of a business that it is worth acquiring. Novara achieved that value through far-sighted and clear thinking at the top, and the nurturing and advancement of talent among its hard-working staff. Eoin’s success is undoubtedly based on the time he has consistently spent re-skilling in order to achieve his goals, and this attitude of renaissance has filtered through the firm, allowing the business to grasp opportunities on the horizon. Novara began in a spare bedroom back in 2000. After graduating from Trinity College in Dublin, Eoin spent five years working as an analyst and fund manager in London for leading stock broking companies, handling client funds worth over £130m. Keen to cast his eye for a profit closer to home, he returned to Dublin in 1997 to learn the family business, the Costello chain of jewellery stores. He got stuck in, running their branch in Cornelscourt and soon achieving the second highest result in Ireland in the National Association of Goldsmiths Diploma; but he realised that if he was to marry his talents for high-end commercial activity, there was greater potential elsewhere. He decided to sell his part of the business. “I wanted to build a business with national growth potential,” Eoin recalls. “With a number of jewellery chains already in existence in Ireland at the time it was unlikely that I was going to be able to grow the jewellery business nationally. This realization coincided with the explosion of awareness of the internet and in 1999 I decided that the internet held huge potential for new businesses.” Growth in e-commerce worldwide was phenomenal – everyone in bricks-and-mortar business wanted to develop a web presence and Eoin saw the lucrative possibilities in hosting web sties, offering high quality back-up services, and providing the crucial domain names that have since become prized assets of Novara’s clients. “The first three years were extremely difficult with the departure of the technical manager, the closure of the data centre where all our equipment was stored and the ending of the dot com bubble,” recalls Eoin. His commitment never flagged during the hard times, with the needs of the business requiring him to re-mortgage his house. But as with so many successful entrepreneurs, he was glad to accept help where he could find it. “Over the eight year life of Novara Dublin City Enterprise Board made a number of critical inputs. The first was the appointment of Mary Cryan as a mentor to us who was a major help in getting us re-focused after the difficulties of the first couple of years. The next big help from DCEB was their investment of convertible redeemable preference shares, which made it possible for us to invest in the hardware required to take the business on to the next level. These two interactions with DCEB helped turn Novara from loss into profit in 2005 and we have been profitable ever since. “A turning point came when we acquired Tornado Hosting Ltd which gave us access to high value dedicated server clients and helped us build our revenue rapidly. However hosting as a business is quite mature now with some very large European and US companies in the space. Therefore international growth possibilities for Irish hosting companies are somewhat limited. “At the time of sale the sale to Digiweb in April, Novara held 6.5% share of the Irish market with in excess of 10,000 customers, was highly profitable with zero debt and had one of the lowest staff to turnover ratios in the industry.

“We put a lot of effort into staff training and motivation which paid off through productivity. The key motivations for the sale were our customers and our staff. As a rapidly growing international company Digiweb provided both with greater long-term potential than Novara on its own could. “Most of my work in the immediate aftermath of the sale is making sure our customers and staff are happy. Since the deal I’ve spent a lot of time on the phone to customers, large and small, to tell them the news and answer any questions they had. I’ve also spent a lot of time with Novara colleagues making sure that they were happy. Everyone in Novara received equivalent positions at Digiweb so it was good news all round.” And what next for Eoin? “I negotiated a deal with Digiweb whereby I am entirely free to start work on my next venture, which is not in the hosting area!”