asked the Minister for External Affairs the annual cost of publishing the Bulletin of the Department of External Affairs; the number of copies per issue; to whom it is furnished; whether it is proposed to improve the design and content; and, if so, when.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - External Affairs Bulletin.
22.
The annual cost of publishing and distributing the bulletin of the Department of External Affairs is estimated at £7,000, exclusive of staff time costs. At present, some 11,960 copies per issue are produced.
The bulletin is sent to Irish and foreign newspapers, libraries, public representatives, government officials, prominent media and other personalities and friends of Ireland abroad.
The question of improvements in design and contents of the bulletin is constantly under review by the Department. The present format is generally similar to that of newsletters also issued by airmail by other Governments. Airmail costs make a light paper necessary. The extent of other possible improvements is limited by considerations of cost.
Could the Minister say if any journalist is employed in the production of this bulletin? Does the Minister himself have any say in it?
Is the Deputy pushing anybody particularly?
I am wondering if a journalist is employed.
It is a miserable effort and the Minister knows that it is the laughing stock of——
No, I do not agree. I think it could be improved and I should like to have a journalist. What does the Deputy mean by a journalist?
A member of the NUJ, an accredited journalist. Is it possible the Cabinet do not know what a journalist is?
How does one define him—a member of the union?
A member of the union is one classification. I am asking is there a journalist employed?
No. It is done by the staff of my Department.
The Minister has no journalist. He should rectify that.
(Interruptions.)