Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 12 Jun 2001

Vol. 537 No. 5

Written Answers. - Advertising Costs.

Nora Owen

Question:

126 Mrs. Owen asked the Taoiseach the number of advertisements either in written media, radio or television since July 1997 that have contained a reference to the Taoiseach by name or title; the number he has appeared in 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 Taoiseach or the relevant Government Minister is to be included; the costs of all such advertisements; and if he will make a statement on the matter [16413/01]

The Taoiseach

I confirm that no advertisements on behalf of my Department either in written media, radio or television since July 1997 have contained a reference to the Taoiseach by name or title. There have been no such advertisements in which I have either appeared or spoken since July 1997.

No instructions have issued from my Department to companies or advertising agencies regarding the inclusion of references to the Taoiseach or Government Ministers when advertising particular schemes or projects.

Advertisements that are placed by my Department relate to the ongoing work of the Department and the development of policy initiatives. Notices placed in Iris Oifigiúl are not considered as media advertising.