Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 26 May 1999

Vol. 505 No. 4

Written Answers. - Official Functions.

Jim Mitchell

Question:

83 Mr. J. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has satisfied himself that all moneys paid between the years 1987 and 1990 by his Department to a caterer (details supplied) were for bona fide State functions and entertainment; if these moneys paid solely covered the costs incurred by the functions concerned; if all these functions were arranged by his Department; if not, if he will give details of the functions which were not; if all functions involved were attended by at least one person from his Department; if not, if he will give details in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14054/99]

Jim Mitchell

Question:

84 Mr. J. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has satisfied himself that all invoices submitted to his Department by a caterer (details supplied) for services purported to be provided in respect of State functions and entertainment between the years 1987 and 1990 solely reflected only the costs incurred for the functions for which they were charged; if these functions were all bona fide State functions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14055/99]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Andrews)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 83 and 84 together.

During the period in question the Department of Foreign Affairs made two payments to the caterer referred to by the Deputy. Both payments related to official entertainment which took place in the restaurant operated by the caterer. Both functions were organised by officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and representatives of the Department were in attendance at each function. I am satisfied that the costs incurred related fully to official functions connected with the business of the Department of Foreign Affairs.