I propose to take Questions Nos. 225 to 228, inclusive, together.
Since taking office in this Department in 2008, I have appointed one Special (Press) Advisor, Ms Michelle Hoctor, under Section 11 of the Public Service Management Act, 1997. Ms Hoctor's position in the Department is that of Special (Press) Advisor. Ms Hoctor is currently paid €93,449 on the Principal Officer Standard Scale. The cost of pension contributions in respect of her appointment at this Department amounts to €2,400 to date. The appointment as Special (Press) Advisor was made under Section 11 of the Public Service Management Act, 1997 and the Advisor performs functions as specified in this Section. This appointment is in line with Department of Finance guidelines on such matters.