asked the Minister for Justice if he will state with reference to a reply of 15th December last the amount of money actually paid to the State by the promoters of the American tour of the Garda Band.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Síochána Band Tour.
49.
As already stated in replies to previous questions, the arrangements with the sponsors were based on the entire costs being borne by the sponsors and on there being no expense to public funds.
Payments to my Department by the sponsors totalled £28,800. My Department's disbursements in respect of the tour totalled £28,400. The difference, £400, falls somewhat short of the sum which would be required to cover fully pension liability in respect of the members of the Band.
It took a long time to get the information.
If you include pensions, there is a loss of £900.
It is well worth it. It is a better expenditure than the pool.