Atebion i Gwestiynau Ysgrifenedig y Cynulliad i’w hateb ar 2 Mehefin 2011
Answers to the Written Assembly Questions for answer on 2 June 2011
Cyhoeddir atebion yn yr iaith y’u darparwyd, gyda chyfieithiad Saesneg o atebion yn y Gymraeg.
Answers are published in the language in which they are provided, with a translation into English of responses provided in Welsh.
[R] yn nodi bod yr Aelod wedi datgan buddiant/signifies that the Member has declared an interest.
[W] yn nodi bod y cwestiwn wedi’i gyflwyno yn Gymraeg/signifies that the question was tabled in Welsh.
Cynnwys
Contents
Cwestiynau i’r Gweinidog Addysg a Sgiliau
Questions to the Minister for Education and Skills
Gofyn i'r Gweinidog Busnes, Menter, Technoleg a Gwyddoniaeth
To ask the Minister for Business, Enterprise, Technology and Science
Andrew RT Davies (Canol De Cymru): Pa ganllawiau y mae'r Gweinidog wedi'u rhoi i'w swyddogion neu i staff ei hadran ynghylch cymeradwyo gwariant. (WAQ57437)
Andrew RT Davies (South Wales Central): What guidance has the Minister given to her officials or staff in her department about approving expenditure. (WAQ57437)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
The Minister for Business, Enterprise, Technology and Science (Edwina Hart): I have agreed delegations for certain payments and commitments.
Andrew RT Davies (Canol De Cymru): Pa ganllawiau y mae'r Gweinidog wedi'u rhoi i'w swyddogion neu i staff ei hadran ynghylch cyfarfodydd â'r cyhoedd neu gynrychiolwyr etholedig. (WAQ57438)
Andrew RT Davies (South Wales Central): What guidance has the Minister given to her officials or staff in her department about meetings with the public or elected representatives. (WAQ57438)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Edwina Hart: I have not issued guidance.
Gofyn i'r Gweinidog Addysg a Sgiliau
To ask the Minister for Education and Skills
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Pa amcangyfrif y mae'r Gweinidog wedi'i wneud am yr ôl-groniad o waith atgyweirio mewn ysgolion cynradd ac uwchradd. (WAQ57397)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): What estimate has the Minister made of the backlog in primary and secondary school repairs. (WAQ57397)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
The Minister for Education and Skills (Leighton Andrews): The responsibility for the repair and maintenance of school buildings lies with individual local authorities which, through assessment of their school buildings condition surveys, will assess and determine the costs of maintaining schools in their area.
However, backlog repair and maintenance cannot be considered in isolation since in many cases authorities have plans for investment in new buildings, or refurbishments, often linked to re-organisation which in some cases will remove the need for investment in buildings currently in use.
The 21st century schools programme launched in March of last year is a long term collaborative programme of investment with colleagues in local government. All local authorities have submitted their Strategic Outline Programmes (SOPs), which are currently being assessed by DfES officials and I intend to make an announcement before summer recess.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Pa fesurau y mae'r Gweinidog yn eu cymryd i wella safon adeiladau ysgol. (WAQ57398)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): What measures is the Minister taking to improve the standard of school buildings. (WAQ57398)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Leighton Andrews: This Government is committed to improving the condition and suitability of schools in Wales; £762.4m capital funding was provided during the previous Assembly term. The 21st Century Schools Programme, a collaborative programme with Local Authorities, launched on 16 March 2010 and set out our aims to deliver capital investment for the 21st century through a long term strategic investment in capital projects.
As part of the implementation of the 21st Century schools programme, local authorities were requested to consider and provide their Strategic Outline Programmes (SOPs) identifying their investment needs over a 10 - 15 year period in line with the strategic direction of education provision within their area. Those Authorities with strong strategic programmes assessed against our agreed criteria will then move to the project options phase, which concentrates on the capital investment requirements underpinned by the Authority’s Programme. This will be a process of discussion and negotiation with individual authorities on their specific projects, which will lead to a long-term national investment programme. An announcement will be made before summer recess.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Pa bryd y mae'r Gweinidog yn disgwyl diwygio 'Ieithoedd sy'n Cyfri', sef strategaeth ieithoedd tramor modern Llywodraeth Cymru. (WAQ57399)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): When does the Minister expect to revise the Welsh Government’s modern foreign languages strategy, 'Languages Count’. (WAQ57399)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Leighton Andrews: Languages Count, the national strategy for modern foreign languages was published in 2002 and set out the Welsh Government’s agenda to improve standards and opportunities for language learning. We have since reviewed the progress made and identified how to build on strengths and address areas for improvement and, in July 2010, the Making Languages Count Action Plan was published. The Action Plan emphasises that the Welsh Government is committed to extending choice and encouraging more young people to improve their language skills, or learn a new foreign language, as one element of their learning pathway.
The Action Plan sets out an agenda which:
• provides support for language learning in Key Stage 2, for those primary schools that choose to pursue this route;
• offers an enhanced programme of advice and support at Key Stage 3;
• promotes language learning within Learning Pathways 14-19 in schools and colleges; and
• highlights the use and benefits of foreign languages in the workplace.
The Welsh Government is providing funding to CILT Cymru - the National Centre for Languages in Wales - to support the implementation of the Action Plan, working with schools, colleges and local authorities.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Pa fesurau y mae'r Gweinidog yn eu cymryd i annog dysgu ieithoedd tramor modern mewn ysgolion cynradd yng Nghymru. (WAQ57400)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): What measures is the Minister taking to encourage the learning of modern foreign languages in primary schools in Wales. (WAQ57400)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Leighton Andrews: The Welsh Government is committed to improving opportunities for pupils to study foreign languages. In our action plan, Making Languages Count, published in July 2010, we identified how we intend to support the development and promotion of modern foreign languages (MFL) in secondary schools and Learning Pathways 14-19 in Wales.
Making Languages Count focuses on the compulsory study of MFL within the national curriculum in Wales and therefore seeks to strengthen our approach for improving the quality of teaching and learning of languages in the first three years of secondary education - Key Stage 3. We recognise that introducing language learning from an early age can be beneficial and, while the plan is directed to practitioners in 11 to 19 learning settings, it does confirm that we will continue to support those primary schools already providing a foreign language to aid continuity and progression in learning.
We have previously made available to primary schools, a non-statutory framework for the teaching of modern foreign languages in Key Stage 2 which was introduced in parallel with the implementation of the revised school curriculum in September 2008.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Pa fesurau y mae'r Gweinidog yn eu cymryd i wyrdroi'r gostyngiad dros y ddegawd ddiwethaf mewn dysgu ieithoedd tramor modern ar lefel TGAU a Safon Uwch. (WAQ57401)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): What measures is the Minister taking to reverse the past decade’s decline in modern foreign language learning at GCSE and A Level. (WAQ57401)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Leighton Andrews: The Welsh Government is committed to encouraging enthusiasm and improving opportunities for pupils to study foreign languages. In our action plan, Making Languages Count, published in July 2010, we identified how we intend to support the development and promotion of modern foreign languages (MFL) in secondary schools and Learning Pathways 14-19 in Wales.
Making Languages Count focuses on the compulsory study of MFL within the national curriculum in Wales and therefore seeks to strengthen our approach for improving the quality of teaching and learning of languages in the first three years of secondary education, Key Stage 3. Beyond that, GCSE, AS and A Level are part of a wider picture in Wales and we are taking steps to encourage greater take-up of, and success in, MFL. Post-14, young people are given the opportunity for language learning across other learning pathways.
Our action plan sets out how we will work with stakeholders across Wales to develop and promote the learning of foreign languages at Key Stage 4 and beyond through a range of flexible options including vocational qualifications. Work is also being taken forward on the development of language units, with accreditation, that can be used within the Welsh Baccalaureate language module.
In partnership with CILT Cymru - the National Centre for Languages, Wales - we are committed to extending choice and encouraging more young people to improve their skills, or to learn a new foreign language, as one element of their learning pathway. Through the use of the Business Language Champions programme, we are also working with CILT Cymru to extend opportunities for young people to improve their language skills through work experience and project work with employers. In addition, CILT is working with Careers Wales to raise awareness of career opportunities provided by language learning, and with the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales (HEFCW) to support the delivery of the Routes into Languages programme to encourage greater numbers of learners into language studies in the later stages of secondary school and HE.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Pa fesurau y mae'r Gweinidog yn eu cymryd i gynyddu darpariaeth addysg cyfrwng Cymraeg yng Nghymru. (WAQ57402)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): What measures is the Minister taking to increase Welsh-medium education provision in Wales. (WAQ57402)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Leighton Andrews: The Welsh-medium Education Strategy is a long-term and comprehensive strategy designed to create an education and training system which has the capacity to respond to the growing demand for Welsh-medium education. Proactive planning on the basis of improving access to Welsh-medium and bilingual provision is a guiding principle.
The Welsh Government expects local authorities to plan effectively to provide statutory Welsh-medium provision, on the basis of informed parental demand, and to submit Welsh in Education Strategic Plans for approval and monitoring. Local authorities will be expected to submit these Plans in December 2011 for full operation from 1 April 2012.
Steps are being taken to improve the planning of Welsh-medium and bilingual provision in the 14-19, work-based learning and higher education phases of education and training to ensure linguistic progression from one phase to the next. The Bilingual Champions project is now operational in 8 Further Education (FE) colleges, and the role of Sgiliaith is being extended as a specialist Welsh-medium and bilingual advice and training body for the post-16 sector. The Welsh Government will also facilitate links between the 14-19 Welsh-medium Forums and the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol to promote learning pathways between FE and HE.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Pa drafodaethau y mae'r Gweinidog wedi'u cael ynghylch lleihau faint o waith papur a gyhoeddir gan ei adran i ysgolion. (WAQ57403)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): What discussions has the Minister had about reducing the amount of paperwork issued from his department to schools. (WAQ57403)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 05 Gorffennaf 2011
Answer received for publication on 05 July 2011
Leighton Andrews: In December 2010 I requested information relating to the way in which schools received information and also a detailed analysis of what was due to be issued during January 2010 and May 2011. I requested that the number of publications being sent out to schools between January 2010 and May 2011 be reduced by fifty percent. This lead to a radical rethinking about how information is sent out to schools from the Department for Education and Skills (DfES). Over this period there was a move away from paper to electronic only. This meant that only 17% of the publications produced by DfES were paper versions.
Information is sent to schools via electronic newsletters reducing the volume of individual pieces of correspondence to schools and significantly reducing printing and distribution costs that can be redirected to front line delivery. In school term times there is a Secondary level electronic newsletter sent out on a weekly basis and a Primary level electronic newsletter every fortnight. The majority of correspondence to schools from the Welsh Government is now sent in this way.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): A wnaiff y Gweinidog egluro pam mae ysgolion Cymru yn colli tir o ran safonau addysg o'i gymharu â gwledydd eraill y Sefydliad ar gyfer Cydweithrediad a Datblygiad Economaidd. (WAQ57404)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): Would the Minister explain why Welsh schools are falling behind other OECD nations in educational standards. (WAQ57404)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Leighton Andrews: I set out clearly the issues identified as underlying our poor PISA results along with a clear agenda for action in my written statements of 7 December 2010 and 2 February 2011.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): A wnaiff y Gweinidog esbonio sut y mae'n bwriadu codi safonau allweddol mewn Saesneg, mathemateg a gwyddoniaeth yng nghyfnod allweddol 3. (WAQ57405)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): Will the Minister explain how he intends to raise key standards in English, maths and science at key stage 3. (WAQ57405)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Leighton Andrews: The Welsh Government is determined to raise standards across all key stages.
Since 2008, the number of pupils achieving the expected level at the end of Key Stage 3 in English, mathematics and science has improved year-on-year. However, the need to further raise standards at this key stage remains a priority. We will continue to support schools and teachers to deliver these key subjects through our curriculum guidance materials and exemplars of standards. Working through regional consortia, we will continue to support the implementation of the Key Stage 3 curriculum and develop the workforce through the Developing Thinking Programme.
We will continue to place a strong focus on literacy, numeracy and the development of the skills required for PISA-style assessments. We are currently developing the National Literacy Programme and we are in the process of refreshing the Skills Framework.
In the 2011/ 12 school year, we will work with schools and local authorities to provide moderation of end of Key Stage 2 and 3 standards in English and Welsh. We plan to follow this with the moderation of science and mathematics in 2012/13.
I am confident these actions will have a significant impact on standards at Key Stage 3.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Pa fesurau y mae'r Gweinidog yn eu cymryd i annog sgiliau entrepreneuriaeth mewn ysgolion. (WAQ57406) Trosglwyddwyd i'w ateb gan y Gweinidog Busnes, Menter, Technoleg a Gwyddoniaeth
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): What measures is the Minister taking to encourage entrepreneurship skills in schools. (WAQ57406) Transferred for answer by the Minister for Business, Enterprise, Technology and Science
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
The Minister for Business, Enterprise, Technology and Science (Edwina Hart): The Youth Entrepreneurship Strategy (YES) Action Plan, launched in November 2010, includes specific actions which are designed to provide young people with entrepreneurial learning opportunities. Details can be found on www.bigideaswales.com
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Faint sydd wedi ymgeisio ar gyfer TGAU mewn economeg y cartref/arlwyo/technoleg bwyd ym mhob blwyddyn er 2004. (WAQ57407)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): How many GCSE entries for home economics/catering/food technology have there been in each year since 2004. (WAQ57407)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Leighton Andrews:
The number of GCSE entries in
Home Economics, Catering and Food Technology from 2004 to 2008 can be found in the table below.
Some data quality issues have been identified in the data at this level of subject breakdown for 2009 and 2010. I will write to the Member with the figures for the last two years once the data quality issues have been resolved.
GCSE Entries (pupils aged 15 only) in selected subjects, 2004 to 2008
Number of entries
Subject |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
Home Economics (a) |
4,477 |
4,538 |
4,876 |
4,871 |
4,674 |
Catering (b) |
1,447 |
1,383 |
1,694 |
1,927 |
1,969 |
Food Technology |
1,403 |
1,401, |
1,372 |
1,328 |
1,236 |
Total |
7,327 |
7,322 |
7,942 |
8,126 |
7,879 |
Source: Welsh Examination Database
Includes Child Development, Food and Textiles
Includes Catering Studies and Hospitality & Catering
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Gorffennaf 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 July 2011
Leighton Andrews: Further to my answers to WAQs 57407, 57491 and 57493, my officials have now completed their investigations into the data quality issues that prevented a full answer being provided at the time. The data issues related to the incorrect classification of some Food Technology qualifications by awarding organisations.
Enclosed with this letter is a spreadsheet containing:
Table 1, showing complete data in answer to WAQ57407;
Table 2, showing complete data in answer to WAQ57493; and
Table 3, showing complete data in answer to WAQ57491.
In WAQ57491, you also asked us to indicate "what facilities are provided for these courses at the schools.” This information is not held centrally.
Ar gyfer y tabl, gweler Gwybodaeth ychwanegol at WAQ57407, WAQ57491 a WAQ57493.
For table, see Information further to WAQ57407, WAQ57491 and WAQ57493.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Sawl ysgol yng Nghymru sydd heb ddigon o gyfleusterau i ddarparu TGAU mewn economeg y cartref/arlwyo/technoleg bwyd. (WAQ57408)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): How many schools in Wales have insufficient facilities to provide GCSE home economics/catering/food technology. (WAQ57408)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Leighton Andrews: The Welsh Government does not collate that data. The information you require will be held by individual local authorities.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Sawl ysgol uwchradd yng Nghymru sy'n cymryd rhan mewn cynlluniau Menter yr Ifanc neu gynlluniau tebyg sy'n galluogi pobl ifanc i gael profiad o fod yn entrepreneuriaid. (WAQ57409) Trosglwyddwyd i'w ateb gan y Gweinidog Busnes, Menter, Technoleg a Gwyddoniaeth
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): How many secondary schools in Wales take part in Young Enterprise or similar schemes which enable young people to experience being entrepreneurs. (WAQ57409) Transferred for answer by the Minister for Business, Enterprise, Technology and Science
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
The Minister for Business, Enterprise, Technology and Science (Edwina Hart):
• There are currently 96 secondary schools and 10 Further Education Institutions registered as Young Enterprise centres.
• Dynamo Role Model entrepreneurs engage with 45,000 young people per annum in 220 secondary schools across Wales.
• 45,745 young people per annum participate in enterprise/business awareness activities in schools.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): A yw'r Gweinidog yn ymwybodol o lefel y ffioedd dysgu y mae pob Sefydliad Addysg Uwch yng Nghymru yn dymuno ei gosod ar gyfer israddedigion o fis Medi 2012. (WAQ57410)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): Is the Minister aware of the tuition fee level each Higher Education Institution in Wales is seeking to set for undergraduate students from September 2012. (WAQ57410)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Leighton Andrews: All higher education institutions proposing to charge fees above £4,000 were required to submit their fee plans to the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales (HEFCW) by 31 May 2011.
HEFCW is currently considering the fee plans and is required to pay due regard to the guidance I issued in March this year which makes clear that the Council should agree challenging targets with institutions for the recruitment, retention and achievement of students from disadvantaged groups. HEFCW will notify institutions as to whether or not their plans have been approved in July.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Sawl gwaith y mae'r Gweinidog wedi cyfarfod ag Is-Ganghellor pob prifysgol ers iddo gyhoeddi ei gynigion ar gyfer ffioedd dysgu ym mis Tachwedd 2010. (WAQ57411)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): On how many occasions has the Minister met with each university Vice Chancellor since he announced his tuition fee proposals in November 2010. (WAQ57411)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Leighton Andrews: I have met Vice-Chancellors on three occasions, as detailed below:
• 9 December 2010 - University of Glamorgan
• 8 March 2011 - University of Bangor
• 10 March 2011 - The Open University
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Sut y mae Sefydliadau Addysg Uwch yng Nghymru yn cydweithio i wneud y defnydd gorau o arian cyhoeddus. (WAQ57412)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): How are Higher Education Institutions in Wales collaborating to make the best use of public funds. (WAQ57412)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Leighton Andrews: Higher education institutions are working across Wales on a number of collaborative initiatives. This includes partnership activities with further education providers, schools and a number of other organisations. Sharing resources and expertise in this way provide an important means of a making best use of funds, while addressing key strategic goals such as widening access and improving the student experience.
Higher education institutions have identified savings made through sharing support services, joint procurement and general efficiencies as part of my Front Line Resources Review.
Collaboration is important and has to be a central driver for change, but it must also have proven practical benefits, such as freeing up greater resource for front-line delivery; driving measureable improvements for learners; and achieving proven infrastructure efficiencies.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): A fydd Llywodraeth Cymru yn dilyn polisi'r weinyddiaeth flaenorol o ddarparu gliniaduron am ddim i bobl ifanc. (WAQ57413)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): Will the Welsh Government be pursuing the policy of the previous administration of free laptops for young people. (WAQ57413)
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Faint o arian y mae Llywodraeth Cymru wedi'i wario ar y polisi gliniaduron am ddim ers ei gyflwyno. (WAQ57414)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): How much has the Welsh Government spent on the free laptops policy since its introduction. (WAQ57414)
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Faint o arian y mae Llywodraeth Cymru yn rhagweld y bydd yn ei wario ar liniaduron am ddim ym mhob un o'r tair blynedd ariannol nesaf. (WAQ57415)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): How much is the Welsh Government forecast to spend on free laptops in each of the next three financial years. (WAQ57415)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Leighton Andrews: The government intentions for development of ICT in schools were set out in our manifesto. I am not proposing to continue the One Wales Laptops project and the Government is not therefore forecasting any expenditure on free laptops in the next three financial years.
The Welsh Government has spent £662,364 on this project since its launch in March 2010.
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): Faint o arian y mae Llywodraeth Cymru yn rhagweld y bydd yn ei wario ar frecwastau ysgol am ddim ym mhob un o'r tair blynedd ariannol nesaf. (WAQ57416)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): How much is the Welsh Government forecast to spend on free school breakfasts for each of the next three financial years. (WAQ57416)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Leighton Andrews: From the outset, the Welsh Government has made clear that participation in the scheme is voluntary and that we will provide the necessary funding for those schools and children who wish to do so. Provision for free breakfasts is demand-led. The Assembly Budget for the next 3 years includes provision for this initiative as follows:
2011-12 £10.7m
2012-13 £12.7m
2013-14 £14.7m
Angela Burns (Gorllewin Caerfyrddin a De Sir Benfro): A wnaiff y Gweinidog egluro pam ei fod yn cadw'r polisi brecwastau ysgol am ddim ar adeg y mae ei lywodraeth yn torri'r gyllideb addysg. (WAQ57417)
Angela Burns (Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire): Will the Minister explain why he is maintaining the policy of free school breakfasts at a time when his government is cutting the education budget. (WAQ57417)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Leighton Andrews: The Welsh Government has pledged to do what we can to protect funding for schools and skills, and to protect front-line services which impact directly on children and the most vulnerable, despite the difficult settlement received from the UK Government.
Within my budgets, I have sought to prioritise the funding on our children and young people, especially the most vulnerable. It is imperative that we continue to tackle the root causes of child poverty and inequalities. Addressing poor diet is an important aspect of this work. The free breakfast initiative is an integral part of the wider work we are doing to improve food and nutrition in schools in Wales.
The education revenue budget has actually seen an increase of 1% in 2011-12 over 2010-11 allocations. It is, therefore, not the case that the Government is cutting the education budget.
The education element of the Revenue Support Grant includes the necessary resources - £61m over three years - to deliver a 1% protection compared to the reduction in the Assembly’s block grant. This reflects the First Minister’s commitment to protect education in order to ensure the delivery of the best outcomes for Welsh children.
Gofyn i'r Gweinidog Iechyd a Gwasanaethau Cymdeithasol
To ask the Minister for Health and Social Services
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Sawl gwerthusiad o feddyginiaethau y mae'r Grwp Strategaeth Feddyginiaethau Cymru Gyfan wedi'i wneud ym mhob blwyddyn er 2004. (WAQ57418)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): How many medicine appraisals have been carried out by All Wales Medicines Strategy Group in each year since 2004. (WAQ57418)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
The Minister for Health and Social Services (Lesley Griffiths):
The numbers of appraisals each calendar year are below:
Year |
No of appraisals |
2004 |
3 |
2005 |
4 |
2006 |
6 |
2007 |
15 |
2008 |
23 |
2009 |
22 |
2010 |
21 |
2011 |
5 to date |
A total of 99 appraisals have been undertaken to date. In addition, from June 2008, 43 statements of advice have been issued (ie medicines not endorsed for use) when the manufacturer has declined to engage in the appraisal process, making a total of 142 recommendations to NHS Wales.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Faint o arian y mae'r Grwp Strategaeth Feddyginiaethau Cymru Gyfan wedi'i gael gan Lywodraeth Cymru ym mhob blwyddyn er 2004. (WAQ57419)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): How much money has All Wales Medicine Strategy Group received from the Welsh Government in each year since 2004. (WAQ57419)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: The following monies have been allocated to AWMSG:
Year 1 April 2003 - 31 March 2004 |
Monies £337,000 |
1 April 2004 - 31 March 2005 |
£349,000 |
1 April 2005 - 31 March 2006 |
£387,000 |
1 April 2006 - 31 March 2007 |
£307,000 |
1 April 2007 - 31 March 2008 |
£457,320 |
1 April 2008 - 31 March 2009 |
£456,000 |
1 April 2009 - 31 March 2010 |
£463,000 |
1 April 2010 - 31 March 2011 |
£1.172m |
1 April 2011 - 31 March 2012 |
£1.172m |
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): A wnaiff y Gweinidog roi sicrwydd bod cleifion IVF yng Nghymru yn cael eu hail gylch o driniaeth o fewn yr amseroedd targed. (WAQ57420)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): Will the Minister provide reassurances that IVF patients in Wales are receiving their second cycle treatment within the target times. (WAQ57420)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: The Assembly Government has not set a target waiting time for, and does not collect data on, the number of patients waiting for a second cycle of IVF treatment.
Local Health Boards are responsible for managing the planning and delivery of fertility services in Wales and do this through their joint work on the Welsh Health Specialised Services Committee (WHSSC). WHSSCC monitors delivery of these services, including the time a patient waits, not the Welsh Government.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Faint o arian y mae'r GIG wedi'i wario dros y pedair blynedd diwethaf i gyflawni ymrwymiad Cymru'n Un i ddod â rôl y sector preifat i ben yn y GIG. (WAQ57421)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): How much money has the NHS spent over the past four years to meet the One Wales commitment to end the role of the private sector in the NHS. (WAQ57421)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: No money has been spent specifically to meet the 'One Wales’ commitment made by the previous Government to eliminate the use of the private sector by the NHS in Wales.
We are committed to providing high quality healthcare services through the NHS in Wales that meets the needs of the population, within the resources available.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Faint o arian y mae'r GIG wedi'i wario dros y flwyddyn ddiwethaf yn atgynhyrchu gwasanaethau IVF a ddarparwyd eisoes i gleifion y GIG gan y London Women’s Clinic. (WAQ57422)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): How much has the NHS spent over the past year replicating IVF services which were already provided to NHS patients by the London Women’s Clinic. (WAQ57422)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: The London Women’s Clinic based in Swansea has provided an excellent IVF service to the NHS over the last few years. However, NHS Wales has been reformed to eliminate the market system so Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Local Health Board (LHB) has now established an NHS provided service for South West Wales. The funding of IVF services is a matter for LHBs, through their collective work on the Welsh Health Specialised Services Committee. LHBs have been given considerable budgets and they must manage service provision within those budgets, ensuring they achieve efficiency and effective use of resources at every stage.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Pa gyfrifoldeb y mae'r Gweinidog yn ei ysgwyddo dros wariant, cyfeiriad strategol a phroses gwneud penderfyniadau clinigol y Byrddau Iechyd Lleol. (WAQ57423)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): What responsibility does the Minister bear for spending, strategic direction and clinical decision-making of Local Health Boards. (WAQ57423)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: As Minister for Health and Social Services, I am responsible and accountable to the National Assembly for Wales for the exercise of all the functions in my portfolio. I set the policy and strategic framework within which the NHS in Wales should operate. I also determine the strategic distribution of overall NHS resources and set the performance and standards framework for the NHS in Wales.
Local Health Boards are accountable to me through the Chief Executive, NHS Wales and are responsible for planning, designing, developing and securing delivery of primary, community, secondary care services, and where appropriate specialist services for their areas to meet identified local needs within the national policy and standards framework I set.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Pa ystyriaeth y mae'r Gweinidog wedi'i rhoi i adroddiad diweddar y Sefydliad Canserau Prin a ddaeth i'r casgliad nad yw cleifion o Gymru yn gallu cael meddyginiaethau ymestyn bywyd sydd ar gael i gleifion mewn rhannau eraill o'r DU. (WAQ57424)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): What consideration has the Minister given to the recent report of the Rarer Cancers Foundation, which concluded that Welsh patients are being denied life-extending medicines available to patients elsewhere in the UK. (WAQ57424)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: All new drugs considered clinically and cost effective by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence or the All Wales Medicines Strategy Group are provided on the NHS in Wales. Where drugs are not approved, or are waiting approval, there are mechanisms in place to ensure that, where deemed clinically appropriate, there is consistent access to medication for all patients including those in exceptional circumstances.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Pa gynigion sydd gan y Gweinidog i lunio trefn gadarn a theg fel y gall cleifion wneud ceisiadau eithriadol am gyllid. (WAQ57425)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): What proposals does the Minister have to draw up a robust and equitable procedure for patients to make exceptional funding requests. (WAQ57425)
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Sut y mae'r Gweinidog yn bwriadu sicrhau bod cleifion yn ymwybodol o'u hawliau i wneud ceisiadau eithriadol am gyllid er mwyn cael gafael ar feddyginiaethau nas darperir gan y Sefydliad Cenedlaethol dros Iechyd a Rhagoriaeth Glinigol (NICE). (WAQ57426)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): How does the Minister intend to ensure that patients are aware of their rights to seek medicines not provided by NICE through exceptional funding requests. (WAQ57426)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: To ensure funding decisions are fair and the definition of exceptionality is consistently applied across NHS Wales, an All-Wales Policy for Making Decisions on Individual Patient Requests has been developed. The policy is in its final draft and will be finalised very shortly. However all NHS organisations are already working to the principles of the policy, which will ensure transparency, equity and accountability. The new arrangements will ensure that patients and their referring clinicians are fully engaged and communicated with throughout the process.
The procedure will be publically available on web, hard copy (and other formats as requested) so patients and public are aware of the process and the factors taken into account in making such decisions.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Faint o welyau a oedd ar gael mewn unedau iechyd meddwl diogel fesul Bwrdd Iechyd Lleol ym mhob un o'r pum mlynedd diwethaf. (WAQ57427)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): How many available beds are there in secure mental health units for each Local Health Board for each of the last five years. (WAQ57427)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: There are no high secure units in Wales, and the medium secure NHS facilities which offer specialist services across Wales are Caswell Clinic and Ty Llewelyn, hosted by Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board respectively. Caswell Clinic has 64 available beds and Ty Llewelyn 25 beds. The use of these facilities is planned via a block contract arrangement directed by the Welsh Health Specialised Services Committee. Given this, data on occupancy rates over the last five years is not available.
As regards low secure facilities, 14 beds are available at Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board’s Cefn Coed facility and 25 at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board’s Whitchurch Hospital.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): A wnaiff y Gweinidog ddatganiad am reoliadau fferyllol yng Nghymru a ph'un ai a oes ganddi gynlluniau i adolygu'r rheoliadau yng Nghymru a ph'un ai a oes ganddi gynlluniau i adolygu'r rheoliadau ar gyfer fferyllfeydd newydd yng Nghymru. (WAQ57428)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): Will the Minister make a statement on pharmacy regulations in Wales and whether she has plans to review the regulations in Wales and whether she has plans to review the regulations for new pharmacies in Wales. (WAQ57428)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: A Strategic Delivery Group was established in 2009 and one of their tasks was to review the NHS (Pharmaceutical Services) Regulations 1992 / 662 (as amended) ("The Regulations”). Following their initial findings it has been decided they will work with my officials to undertake a consultation and arrangements are being finalised. Once the consultation is completed they will report to me with their recommendations.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Beth yw'r amseroedd aros cyfartalog am wasanaethau cadair olwyn ar gyfer (a) oedolion a (b) plant yn (i) Bwrdd Iechyd Betsi Cadwaladr a (ii) Bwrdd Iechyd Prifysgol Caerdydd a'r Fro ym mhob un o'r pum mlynedd diwethaf. (WAQ57429)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): What are the average waiting times wheelchair services for (a) adults and (b) children for (i) Betsi Cadwaldr Health Board, (ii) Cardiff and the Vale University Health Board for each of the last five years. (WAQ57429)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: The Welsh Government does not collate this information.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Fesul awdurdod lleol ac ym mhob un o'r pum mlynedd diwethaf, faint o gleifion sydd wedi cael eu trin gyda Viagra. (WAQ57430)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): By local authority area and in each of the last five years, how many patients have been treated with Viagra. (WAQ57430)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: This information is not held centrally.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Sawl Bwrdd Iechyd Lleol a pha Fyrddau Iechyd Lleol sy'n darparu gwasanaethau rhyddhau yn gynnar gyda chefnogaeth neu wasanaethau allgymorth i gleifion sydd wedi cael strôc. (WAQ57431)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): How many and which Local Health Boards provide early supported discharge or outreach services to patients who have had a stroke. (WAQ57431)
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): A wnaiff y Gweinidog amlinellu'r dull gweithredu y mae pob Bwrdd Iechyd Lleol yn bwriadu ei gymryd i ddatblygu gwasanaethau adsefydlu ar ôl strôc i gleifion. (WAQ57432)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): Will the Minister outline the approach each of the Local Health Boards are planning to take to develop stroke rehabilitation services for patients. (WAQ57432)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: The planning and delivery of rehabilitation services for people who have had a stroke is a matter for Local Health Boards (LHBs). LHBs are reviewing and developing their stroke rehabilitation services to ensure they meet national guidelines and standards and the outcome of the recent Review of Adult Neurosciences so that people have every chance to return to independent living.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Pa rai o'r Byrddau Iechyd Lleol sy'n darparu ffisiotherapi iechyd galwedigaethol i'r staff a gyflogir yn eu bwrdd iechyd. (WAQ57433)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): Which of the Local Health Boards provide occupational health physiotherapy to the staff employed in their health board. (WAQ57433)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: The Welsh Government does not hold this information centrally. Provision of occupational health physiotherapy for NHS staff is a matter for local determination by the individual Local Health Boards.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Beth y mae Llywodraeth Cymru yn bwriadu ei wneud i wella mynediad at ffisiotherapi 'llwybr carlam' ar gyfer busnesau a diwydiant (yn enwedig busnesau bach a chanolig), er mwyn helpu i gadw pobl yn 'ffit ar gyfer gweithio'. (WAQ57434)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): What is the Welsh Government planning to do to improve access to 'fast track’ physiotherapy for business and industry, (particularly small and medium enterprises - SMEs) to keep people 'fit for work’. (WAQ57434)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: In 2007, the Welsh Government launched a pilot project aiming to demonstrate a reduction in sickness absence rates due to musculoskeletal disorders across the public, private and third sectors by providing rapid access to early intervention physiotherapy services. The pilot demonstrated that the service had significant potential to reduce the impact of pain at work; to reduce sickness absence; to improve work performance as well as representing good value for money. The data will contribute to the evidence base to encourage employers to invest in such services to improve health and well being at work.
The data from the pilot has also informed work by the One Wales Occupational Health Task and Finish Group which was convened by my predecessor, Edwina Hart, to make recommendations for a National Health and Wellbeing Service. The basis for the proposed service would be delivery by the NHS and made viable by contributions by employers. I expect to receive a detailed implementation plan for the first phase of this work for consideration later in the year.
Finally, the Welsh Government collaborates with the Department for Work and Pensions, the Health and Safety Executive, the Department of Health and the Scottish Government as part of the cross-Government Health, Work and Well being Strategy. The Strategy aims to improve the health of the working age population, and as part of this work, Rhyl City Strategy were successful in securing one of the UK Fit for Work pilots for Wales. The pilot provides rapid access to work focused health and employment services, including physiotherapy, and will help to build the evidence base to demonstrate a robust business case to encourage employers to provide similar services.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Sawl swydd ffisiotherapi ym mhob un o'r Byrddau Iechyd Lleol sydd wedi dod i ben o ganlyniad i golli cyllid yn ystod y flwyddyn ariannol ddiwethaf, ym mha feysydd arbenigol yr oedd y swyddi hyn yn cael eu talu, ac ar ba raddfa gyflog Agenda ar gyfer Newid yr oeddent. (WAQ57435)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): How many physiotherapy posts in each of the Local Health Boards have been discontinued as a result of loss of funding during the last financial year, in which speciality areas were these posts paid, and at what Agenda for Change pay bands are they. (WAQ57435)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: This information is not held centrally.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Sawl swydd yng ngwasanaethau ffisiotherapi pob un o'r saith Bwrdd Iechyd Lleol oedd yn disgwyl cael eu cymeradwyo ar gyfer recriwtio ar 31ain Mawrth 2011, ac ar ba raddfa gyflog Agenda ar gyfer Newid yr oeddent. (WAQ57436)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): How many posts in the physiotherapy services of each of the seven Local Health Boards, and at which Agenda for Change pay bands, were awaiting approval for recruitment on the 31st of March 2011. (WAQ57436)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: This information is not held centrally.
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Beth yw'r amseroedd aros ar gyfer adsefydlu cleifion yr ysgyfaint fesul Bwrdd Iechyd Lleol ym mhob un o'r pum mlynedd diwethaf, a sawl claf oedd yn disgwyl am wasanaeth adsefydlu yr ysgyfaint fesul Bwrdd Iechyd Lleol ym mhob un o'r pum mlynedd diwethaf. (WAQ57440)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): What are the waiting times for pulmonary rehabilitation for each Local Health Board for each of the last five years and how many patients are waiting for pulmonary rehabilitation for each Local Health Board for each of the last five years. (WAQ57440)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: The Welsh Government does not collate this level of information. I expect all patients to be seen in order of clinical priority and in an appropriate timescale, and my officials have been working with LHBs to ensure more equitable provision of pulmonary rehabilitation across Wales to help reduce waiting times.
Kirsty Williams (Brycheiniog a Sir Faesyfed): A wnaiff y Gweinidog ddatganiad am y cynnydd o ran sefydlu uned ddialysis yn Ysbyty Llandrindod. (WAQ57441)
Kirsty Williams (Brecon and Radnorshire): Will the Minister make a statement on the progress in establishing a dialysis unit at Llandrindod Wells Hospital. (WAQ57441)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 07 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 07 June 2011
Lesley Griffiths: The planning and delivery of renal dialysis services is a matter for Local Health Boards, through their collective work on the Welsh Health Specialised Services Committee (WHSSC). The Renal Dialysis Expansion Programme in Wales is being co-ordinated by the Welsh Renal Clinical Network, a sub committee of WHSSC, and the Network anticipates that the unit in Llandrindod Wells will become operation later this summer.
Gofyn i'r Gweinidog Llywodraeth Leol a Chymunedau
To ask the Minister for Local Government and Communities
Darren Millar (Gorllewin Clwyd): Sawl trwydded i werthu alcohol sydd wedi'u dirymu am werthu alcohol i bobl dan oed yng Nghymru ym mhob un o'r pum mlynedd diwethaf. (WAQ57439)
Darren Millar (Clwyd West): How many licenses to sell alcohol have been revoked for selling alcohol to underage persons in Wales for each of the last five years. (WAQ57439)
Derbyniwyd ateb i’w gyhoeddi ar 03 Mehefin 2011
Answer received for publication on 03 June 2011
The Minister for Local Government and Communities (Carl Sargeant): The Welsh Government does not hold the requested information. Licensing matters are the responsibility of the Home Office in the UK Government, having previously been the responsibility of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.