asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the cost of Christmas cards and greetings sent by him in 1970; if postage was provided free by his Department and, if so, the cost; and the estimated cost of cards on order this year and if the cards will be sent free of charge.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Government Christmas Greetings.
146.
The cost of the cards was £85 in 1970. In accordance with long-standing practice cards were franked "official paid". The value of the postage involved was approximately £75.
The cost of the cards ordered for this year is £56 and the same postal arrangements will apply as in previous years.
Can the Minister state if the cards are sent abroad or if they are sent to people within the jurisdiction?
Some are sent abroad and some are sent to people living in the jurisdiction.
What a remarkable statement.
I have replied to the question the Deputy asked.
147.
andMr. L'Estrange asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the projected cost to the Exchequer during the financial year 1971-72 of the sending of Christmas cards by him.
It is estimated that the cost will not exceed £100.
148.
andMr. L'Estrange asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the total number of hours during which civil servants were engaged in sending Christmas cards from him in 1970 and the projected corresponding number for 1971.
The work involved in the dispatch of Christmas cards is so integrated with other work that it would not be practicable to give a separate figure for the time spent on it.