The information requested is set out in the following table:
2011
|
2012
|
2013
|
Total
|
€1,910,071
|
€2,322,977
|
€738,721
|
€4,971,769
|
The Market Development Programme for Waste Resources, launched in 2009, involved expenditure of some €1.6 million in the years concerned in respect of work by a number of firms to assist in the development of sustainable markets and outlets for recyclable materials.
External consultancy advice services are availed of by my Department in circumstances where necessary work cannot be carried out within the resources/expertise available to the Department. The awarding of consultancy contracts in my Department is carried out in accordance with Guidelines for the Engagement of Consultants and Other External Support by the Civil Service, published by the Department of Finance. In procuring such services and managing the associated contracts, every effort is made by my Department to ensure maximum value for money and the keeping of expenditure to the minimum necessary to achieve the relevant objectives.