With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 133, 134, 135 and 136 together.
Approximately 240,000 copies of the message were despatched. The cost of paper and printing was £346 12s. The amount of the interdepartmental book transfer from my Department to the Department of Posts and Telegraphs in respect of delivery has not yet been ascertained.
The preparation and addressing of the envelopes was done at the district veterinary offices, a number of which service more than one county. This work was integrated with other duties of these offices and it would not be feasible to make any accurate estimate of the extra time or labour cost involved. Use was, of course, made of the Addressall machines with which each of the local offices is equipped.
The cost of paper, envelopes and printing is being borne on the Vote for the Stationery Office and the ballance of the cost on the Vote for my Department.
A very small proportion of the letters was returned undelivered.