Vol. 433 No. 5
105 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the number of separate public relations consultants who are currently employed in his Department; and his views on whether this represents a judicious use of taxpayers' funds.
Drury Communications Limited have been engaged since 1 August 1992 as public relations consultants to my Department. In addition, up to 30 June last, my Department processed payments due to Carr Communications Limited, public relations consultants, engaged on behalf of the State for duties relating to the Tribunal of Inquiry into the Beef Industry.
An effective information flow between my Department, as the organisation responsible for the Agriculture, Food and Forestry sectors, and those involved in the sector, including the general public, is essential. The utilisation of the expertise of consultants to assist my Department and the State in maintaining good communications with those with which it is involved is fully justified.
