I can confirm that the practice in my Department is not to utilise advertorials as a communications mechanism.
In one instance during the period referenced, my Department paid for a newspaper supplement detailing information in respect of a key Department scheme, namely the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS). The information provided was part of a public information campaign, and was consistent with EU Regulations requiring that all BPS applications be made online in 2018.
The supplement in question was published in April 2017, approaching the deadline for applications to the BPS. It appeared as a dedicated section of the relevant newspaper and was clearly identifiable as part of the Department's information provision in respect of relevant services of significant importance to farmers.
The content was published at a cost of €12,000 (+ VAT). The purpose of the content was to inform farmers on the relevant logistics of the application process and in particular, the benefits in engaging with the process via the applicable online application system.
In relation to the State Bodies under the aegis of this Department, the information requested is an operational matter for the State Bodies themselves. A copy of the question has been forwarded to them for appropriate attention.