Vol. 540 No. 3
317 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the total amount paid to consultancy or public relations firms in the past 12 months in respect of the promotion of the work of the Minister or his office; the number of persons engaged in public relations or consultancy work on a full-time basis and on a part-time basis in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20862/01]
I can inform the Deputy that a total of £298,777.11 was expended by my Department in the 12 month period ended 30 June, 2001 in relation to the promotion of the various responsibilities of my Department, particularly in the areas of gender and employment equality, disability, anti-racism and violence against women.
I can further inform the Deputy that no members of staff in my Department are engaged either on a full-time or part-time basis on public relations or consultancy work. Private consultancy firms are engaged when such a requirement arises.
