asked the Minister for Labour the names, addresses and qualifications of drivers employed by his Minister of State; the allowances and other expenses paid; and the estimated cost of travel in 1983 under the new arrangements in comparison with the cost of the provision of State cars in 1983.
Written Answers. - Ministerial Drivers.
591.
There is at present no civilian driver employed by the Minister of State at my Department and it is not his intention to make an appointment. He did employ a driver from 14 November 1983 to 12 January 1984. The person concerned was remunerated at the rate of £172.50 per week; he received no other allowances or expenses.
The cost of travel in 1983, exclusive of driver's pay, under the new arrangements was £1,461.30. I understand that the cost of providing official transport for Ministers is not kept in Garda records in such a way as to enable the comparative costs sought to be given.