asked the Taoiseach if his attention has been drawn to a report (details supplied) to the effect that the director of the Government Information Services was flown by aeroplane from Farranfore Airport, County Kerry, to Dublin; if this report is correct; and, if so, the cost of the plane, fuel, and so on, and the reason for incurring such expenses.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Government Information Services Director.
1.
Urgent Government business made it necessary to arrange for the return of the head of the Government Information Services from Killarney to Dublin as early as possible on the afternoon of Friday, the 25th April, 1975. The only practicable mode of travel was by air and, on my instructions, this was arranged. The approximate cost was £40.
Can the Taoiseach say what was the urgent Government business which would justify such a dramatic method of getting back to Dublin?
As the Deputy may recall that was during the oil stoppage. In common with a number of other civil servants the head of the Government Information Services was attending the IMI conference in Killarney and it was essential to bring him back arising out of the oil stoppage.
Does the Taoiseach think it is setting a very good example to workers who have been asked to show restraint in wage agreements to incur this type of expenditure in view of the non-event for which he was brought back?
The Deputy is introducing new matter.
Of course hindsight is easy.
Was he not brought back to coach the Minister for Labour for his television interview that night?
Question No. 2.