I propose to take Questions Nos. 847, 848, 849, 873, 874 and 919 together.
I can inform the Deputies that mobile communications devices have become essential business tools without which the Department could not adequately deliver the services expected from it. They add enormously to productivity, flexibility and speed of response. My Department's total expenditure on mobile phone accounts, including accounts supporting various other mobile communications and data devices, amounted to €335,000 in 2006. Expenditure for 2007 to date is €290,189. Figures for expenditure in previous years is not readily available. Analysis of the Department's bills indicate that data charges are estimated to comprise approximately 20% and roaming charges 15% of the overall bill. However, it should be noted that the data charges include those incurred in respect of devices primarily designed for the transfer of data. The number of mobile phone accounts at any point in time varies in accordance with operational needs. At the present there are 669 mobile accounts, including accounts to support other communications devices. 118 of these accounts relate to Blackberry devices.
Total expenditure on mobile phones and other mobile communications devices in respect of staff appointed directly by myself, as well as my own mobile phone, amounts to €4236.67 since my appointment as Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.