Seán Crowe
Question:170 Mr. Crowe asked the Taoiseach the cost to the State of providing transport expenses to each individual Minister of State since the formation of the Government. [22939/03]
Written Answers. - Ministerial Transport.
The Minister of State, Deputy Roche, is Minister of State for European Affairs at the Department of the Taoiseach and the Department of Foreign Affairs. His transport costs are divided between the two Departments. A motor mileage allowance in respect of official travel undertaken in relation to his office is paid by the Department of the Taoiseach. The total paid in the period to 30 September 2003 is €27,700. This mileage allowance covers the costs of depreciation, insurance, maintenance and petrol. It is paid in accordance with guidelines set down by the Department of Finance for Ministers of State. Details in relation to the other transport expenses will be included in the reply provided by the Department of Foreign Affairs.
In accordance with established practice, the Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach and Government Chief Whip is provided with official transport. The cost of this will be reflected in the reply by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform.