Official Engagements.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 December 2004

Tuesday, 7 December 2004

Questions (262)

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

289 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Question No. 438 of 30 November 2004, if the amount referred to includes the cost and expenses in terms of Garda time for attending or participating in such events; if it includes the cost of the Garda helicopter; if not, the reason these costs have not been taken into account; if he will provide details of the actual costs as originally requested; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32592/04]

Written answers

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I assume the Deputy is referring to the recent launch of the Garda traffic corps. The question to which the Deputy refers related to costs of press events organised by my Department so it did not therefore take account of any costs relating to events organised by the Garda Síochána.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda payroll costs associated with the launch amounted to approximately €800. The approximate hourly operating cost of the Garda helicopter, including the salary of the crew, is €1,075. The only additional minor costs relateto the fuel costs associated with the Garda vehicles.