Vol. 450 No. 3
13 Miss Harney asked the Taoiseach if he has engaged the services of any public relations consultants in his Department since taking office; if so, the details of any such contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4923/95]
On 7 February last I advised the House that consultants had been, and would continue to be, engaged from time to time. Since December 1994, one PR firm has been engaged for two days at a total cost of £580.80. As I said on 21 February, I do not have any PR consultants working on an on-going basis with my Department.
What was the name of the PR firm and what did they do for the two days?
What was the 80p for?
The name of the firm is Peter White and Associates. They worked for two days assisting the Minister of State with responsibility for western development, Deputy Donal Carey.
Can the Taoiseach be more specific? In regard to what matter was he assisted?
He was assisted in regard to the presentation of his brief. He has a new brief which involves a new concept in public administration involving a lateral approach to the western development responsibilities of a number of Departments. His work involves contact with a wide range of voluntary and statutory organisations. It is important that his work be understood by those who are designed to benefit from his work. I felt it was legitimate that public relations consultants be commissioned — on a one off basis — to assist in that task of presenting this role. Probably the best way to hire public relations consultants is for a particular job rather than have people on a retainer.
It was money well spent.
Indeed it was.
The manpower does not come cheaply.
I am sure there were tender procedures and all of that.
