Vol. 217 No. 7
asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware of public concern at the cost and nature of some promotional activities of State sponsored bodies under the aegis of his Department; whether he will consult with these bodies regarding the need for ensuring that there is a worthwhile return for money so spent; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
5.
asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether any State sponsored bodies under the aegis of his Department made any payments by way of subsidy or otherwise to the recent ball in Powerscourt; if so, the amount thereof and the statutory powers exercised in the making of such payments.
I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Question Nos. 4 and 5 together.
I am not aware that there is public concern in this matter. I have frequent consultations with the boards of all the State-sponsored companies under my control and I am satisfied that the moneys allocated for promotional purposes are being spent by them to the best advantage. All these bodies are conscious of the need for maximum economy consistent with the proper fulfilment of their statutory functions.
The chief promotional body is Bord Fáilte whose powers derive from section 5 of the Tourist Traffic Act, 1952 and section 6 of the Tourist Traffic Act, 1955. Details of the amounts involved in the various payments made by the Board are not available in my Department.
