Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 31 May 2001

Vol. 537 No. 4

Written Answers. - Departmental Advertising.

Nora Owen

Question:

133 Mrs. Owen asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs the number of advertisements in written media, radio or television since July 1997 that have contained a reference to the Minister by name or title; the number he has actually appeared or spoken in; if any instructions have been issued to companies or advertising agencies that when advertising a particular scheme or project sponsored by their Department, the Minister or the Government is to be included; the costs of all such advertisements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16423/01]

Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

The use of advertising is vital in the effective delivery of social welfare services and in helping to ensure that citizens are aware of their entitlements and are kept informed of changes and improvements as they occur across the broad range of schemes and other supports.

Since July 1997, out of a total of 229 advertisements placed by my Department in the print media, radio or television, 44 contained a reference to the Minister by name or title. The cost of those 44 advertisements was £810,571. No instructions issued to advertising agencies along the lines suggested.