Jim O'Keeffe
Question:269 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the public relations services he has engaged since July 1997; and the cost and names of those involved. [19933/99]
Written Answers. - Public Relations Services.
The Department regularly engages in a variety of advertising and publicity through national, provincial and local media in order to highlight developments in the social welfare system, including the introduction of new schemes and improvements to existing schemes. Other forms of publicity and advertising include information campaigns, participation in events and exhibitions and the design and printing of information leaflets.
All media matters of this nature are handled by the Department's internal press and information services which retains professional services such as graphic design, the placement of media advertisements, staff training and photography services for certain public events etc.
However, my Department has not engaged the services of any public relations specialists during the period from July 1997 to date.