Wednesday, 6 Mar 2019

Written Answers Nos. 65-91

Job Creation Data

Questions (65)

Brendan Smith

Question:

65. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Taoiseach the number of jobs created in each of the counties in the Border region in 2018. [11250/19]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach

The exact information requested by the Deputy is not available.

The Labour Force Survey (LFS) is the official source of estimates of employment in the State. The most recent figures available are for Q4 2018.

Due to the methodology and sample size of the survey it is not possible to produce reliable county estimates from the LFS.

Estimates of employment however, are produced by NUTS 3 Regions.

The NUTS 3 Border region includes counties Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim, Monaghan and Sligo.

The table below shows the number of persons aged 15 years and over in employment in the NUTS 3 Border region in Q4 2017 and Q4 2018 and the annual change.

As the table shows the overall stock of persons employed at given points in time, the annual change which is calculated using these stock figures depends both on the number of jobs lost and jobs created over the period in question.

The LFS does not record whether a job is newly created.

Number of employed persons (ILO) aged 15 years and over classified by NUTS3 Border region, Q4 2017 and Q4 2018 - Annual change

'000

	Q4 17	Q4 18	Annual Change
In employment	180.1	177.7	-2.3

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS), Central Statistics Office, Ireland.

Data may be subject to future revision.

Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.

Reference period: Q4 Oct-Dec.

Departmental Advertising Expenditure

Questions (66, 67)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

66. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Taoiseach the amount spent on social media advertising and online promoted content (details supplied) in 2018 and to date in 2019, by campaign and social media platform used. [11128/19]

Catherine Murphy

Question:

67. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Taoiseach if he has engaged and-or consulted with a public relations online advertising agency regarding social media advertising and online promoted content in 2018 and to date in 2019; and the amount spent by company. [11145/19]

Written answers

Taoiseach

I propose to take Questions Nos. 66 and 67 together.

A decision was taken in 2017 to fund and run cross-Government public information programmes centrally. As a result of this, in the period between Quarter 4 of 2017 and July 2018, a number of public information campaigns, aimed at improving citizens' lives, such as the Healthy Ireland campaign, the Project Ireland 2040 campaign and the Self-Employed Benefits campaign were run and funded from my Department. This was a departure in approach from previous years, when such campaigns would have been led and funded by the relevant line Department. Since July 2018, the Department has reverted to the previous model.

The purchase of digital and online space is managed through a media-buying company contracted to the Department, PHD Media. The spend on the purchase of digital and online space in 2018 was €437,347.50. This expenditure relates to the major cross-Government public information campaigns that the Department funded centrally during 2018. Over 75% of this expense was incurred prior to July 2018, before changes were made. No cost has been incurred in 2019 for the purchase of digital and online space to date.

Purchasing digital and online space includes advertising on search engines (to ensure the public is directed to the sites that deliver the services they are looking for) and social media. Social media relates to sponsored posts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Youtube to ensure effective dissemination of information.

Please find attached the breakdown of the spend on the purchase of digital and online space by campaign in 2018

Campaign	Spend on purchase of digital/online space
National Digital Strategy Public consultation	€ 1,232.46
Budget 2019	€ 10,549.68
25th Anniversary of Decriminalisation of Homosexuality	€ 704.80
End of Dáil Term Legislation	€ 708.66
Bliain na Gaeilge	€ 4,632.18
Government Health Measures	€ 1,230.06
Self-Employed Benefits	€ 2,453.83
Healthy Ireland	€ 8,377.47
Irish Aid	€ 2,387.27
Action Plan for Education	€ 1,021.08
Opening of Google Offices	€ 585.63
UN Disability Campaign	€ 2,464.92
Global Ireland	€ 283,738.45
Project Ireland 2040	€ 95,366.01
PRSI Video 2017	€ 3,000.00
Back to school 2017	€ 2,875.00
Rugby World Cup 2017	€ 9,500.00
Budget 2018	€ 6,520.00
Total 2018 Spend	€ 437,347.50

Military Medals

Questions (68, 69)

Carol Nolan

Question:

68. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the steps he will take to ensure that veterans who fought in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1961 are awarded medals for bravery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11046/19]

Carol Nolan

Question:

69. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the steps he will take to ensure that deceased veterans who fought in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1961 are awarded medals for bravery posthumously; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11047/19]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 68 and 69 together.

The siege of Jadotville was a prominent event that occurred during Ireland's peacekeeping mission in the Congo in September 1961. "A" Company, 35th Infantry Battalion took responsibility for the UN post at Jadotville on 3rd September 1961. On the 9th September, a large force of Katangese Gendarmerie surrounded them and early on the morning of the 13th September "A" Company came under attack. From the 13th to the 17th September they endured almost continuous attack. They were taken into captivity on the 17th September and remained in captivity until finally released on the 25th October 1961.

In accordance with Defence Forces regulations the award of medals for bravery is time bound. These may not be awarded in any case unless a recommendation is made through the usual channels to the Chief of Staff, not later than two years in the case of the Military Medal for Gallantry, and not later than four years in the case of the Distinguished Service Medal, after the performance of the act in respect of which the recommendation is made. Such awards are made on the recommendation of a Military Board appointed by the Chief of Staff for the purpose of examining and reporting on every recommendation for an award.

The issue of the award of medals to the men of “A” Company, 35th Infantry Battalion was comprehensively addressed in 1965. A properly constituted Medals Board considered the various cases presented and made a decision that no medals would be awarded. The Chief of Staff of the day considered the decision of the Board and was satisfied with the findings. Subsequently at that time, the question was raised again in a letter to a newly appointed Chief of Staff. He forwarded the letter to the original Medals Board and asked that they reconvene and review their decision. The Board indicated that the issues raised had received due consideration and that they were not prepared to alter their findings.

Over the past number of years various representations have been received in my Department outlining the courage and bravery of "A" Company. All representations have been considered and responded to acknowledging their valiant actions while under siege in Jadotville.

A review was conducted in 2004 by military officers for the purpose of a broader examination of the Jadotville case. This Board recommended that the events of Jadotville and the contribution of the 35th Battalion be given recognition. In this context, a number of measures have taken place to honour and to commemorate the events at Jadotville and the very significant contribution of “A” Company and of the 35th Battalion, as a whole, to the UN Peace Support Mission in the Congo.

Recognition of their contribution over the years include:

A. A presentation of scrolls to "A" Company in 2006.

B. Portraits of Lt Col McNamee (35th Battalion Commander) and Comdt Quinlan (Company Commander “A” Company) were commissioned in 2006.

C. In July of 2010 the 50th anniversary of the first deployment to the Congo was commemorated in a highly publicised and well attended event in Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel.

D. A nominal roll of “A” Company, printed in copper, was affixed to the monument in Costume Barracks and was unveiled as part of the 50th Anniversary of the Jadotville affair in September 2011.

E. On the occasion of the 55th anniversary of the Siege of Jadotville, I decided to issue a Unit Citation to honour the collective actions and bravery of the men of “A” Company. This was the first time a Unit Citation was awarded within the Defence Forces and I was delighted to be able to formally recognise the brave actions of these men.

Furthermore, on 13th June 2017, the Government decided, as an exceptional step, to award a medal known as “An Bonn Jadotville” or “The Jadotville Medal” to each member of “A” Company, 35th Infantry Battalion and to the family representatives of deceased members to give full and due recognition in honour of their courageous actions at the Siege of Jadotville. This medal presentation ceremony took place on 2nd December 2017 in Custume Barracks, Athlone. This location is considered the spiritual home of “A” Company and it is from here that “A” company assembled in advance of their fateful deployment to the Congo.

I am satisfied that the events and happenings to date properly honour the collective bravery of the men of “A” Company and full and due recognition has been afforded to them in their honour.

Departmental Advertising Expenditure

Questions (70)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

70. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the amount spent on social media advertising and online promoted content (details supplied) in 2018 and to date in 2019, by campaign and social media platform used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11118/19]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

No expenditure was incurred in respect of my Department on social media advertising and online promoted content in 2018 or to date in 2019, in the form referred to by the Deputy.

Departmental Advertising Expenditure

Questions (71)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

71. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he has engaged and-or consulted with a public relations online advertising agency regarding social media advertising and online promoted content in 2018 and to date in 2019; and the amount spent by company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11135/19]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

I have set out the details of the online advertising agency and costs incurred by my Department in relation to the Be Winter Ready campaign, for 2018 in the table below.   There has not been any expenditure in this regard to date in 2019, as the campaign is carried out in the last quarter of the year.

Advertising Agency		€
Management of Twitter campaign	Spark Foundry	€2,583.00

Naval Service Operations

Questions (72, 73)

Brian Stanley

Question:

72. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the case of a vessel entering Irish waters recently carrying nuclear waste material and a Naval Service vessel being sent out in consequence of the incident; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11242/19]

Brian Stanley

Question:

73. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if vessels carrying nuclear waste material approaching Irish waters are monitored; and if so, the number recorded in the past five years. [11243/19]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 72 and 73 together.

I wish to advise the Deputy that the primary day to day role of the Naval Service is to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with the State's obligations as a member of the European Union.

When on patrol Naval Service vessels are multi-tasked in the sense that they also undertake general surveillance of vessels operating through, or close, to the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), security and other duties.  

As the Deputy will appreciate, it would not be appropriate to comment on specific operational matters, however, I am advised that, to date in 2019, the Naval Service is aware of three vessels with the potential to carry nuclear waste material transiting through or close to the Irish EEZ.

Election Monitoring Missions

Questions (74, 76, 81)

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

74. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if a disability accommodation appeal will be allowed in the case of a person (details supplied) in view of the circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11040/19]

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

76. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if a matter regarding a disability accommodation on behalf of a person (details supplied) will be examined; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11083/19]

Mattie McGrath

Question:

81. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will address concerns related to the election observation roster maintained by Irish Aid (details supplied); the way in which Irish Aid promotes support for disability among election observers which is mandated by both the European Union and the OSCE; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11193/19]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

I propose to take Questions Nos. 74, 76 and 81 together.

I can inform the Deputy that full consideration has been given to the candidate's request for an appeal and the candidate will be informed this week of the decision of the Appeals panel.  This included consideration of his late request for a reasonable accommodation on grounds of disability on which was advice was sought and which was considered in the context of fairness to all candidates.

Semi-State Bodies

Questions (75)

Seán Crowe

Question:

75. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the fact that indigenous and Afro-descendent communities in the state of La Guajira, Colombia, have launched a lawsuit against the coal supplier of the ESB in Colombia (detailed supplied); if the embassy in Colombia is following the legal case; if his Department has raised the issue with the ESB; and if he has discussed the issue with the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment. [11076/19]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

I am aware of the situation to which the Deputy refers, and of other issues that have been raised by environmental and indigenous rights defenders in relation to the Cerrejón mine.

I should repeat at the outset that queries regarding the ESB and where it sources its coal would be more properly directed to my colleague, the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment. However, issues such as environmental degradation, and the right of indigenous communities to be consulted in regard to projects which affect them, are recurring challenges across the Latin America region. 

I understand that there have been complaints from some non-governmental organisations regarding private sector activities in the Cerrejón Mine and I am aware of negative publicity that has surrounded the mine. I remain concerned at reports of mining activities having a negative impact on local populations or on the environment, as well as of reported abuse of workers.

Ireland has just opened its first resident Embassy in Bogotá, with Ambassador Alison Milton presenting her credentials late last month. This significant step demonstrates our Government’s commitment to developing Ireland’s relationship with Colombia and in particular our commitment to supporting Colombia’s transition to a peaceful post-conflict society, including the vindication and protection of human and social rights. 

Having a presence on the ground in Colombia will greatly enhance Ireland's ability to engage on and monitor important issues, among them those raised by human rights, environmental and indigenous rights defenders, including the impact of the Cerrejón mine on the local community and the environment. This is something that the EU Delegation in Bogotá has been monitoring for some time, having met with representatives of the mine as well as of trade unions, civil society and environmental organisations. We will continue to liaise closely with our EU partners on this issue.

Historic strides have been made in Colombia in recent years in the transition to a post-conflict society and addressing social and environmental issues is part of that process. Significant challenges remain, but Ireland remains committed to supporting the full implementation of the peace agreement, which will ensure a more peaceful, stable and prosperous future for all Colombians.

We will continue to monitor developments in the country and the particular issue raised by the Deputy as closely as possible. Officials at my Department in Dublin, and at our new Embassy in Bogotá, will continue to engage with indigenous rights defenders, environmental groups and other civil society organisations active on the ground.

Question No. 76 answered with Question No. 74.

Departmental Advertising Expenditure

Questions (77, 78)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

77. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the amount spent on social media advertising and online promoted content (details supplied) in 2018 and to date in 2019 by campaign and social media platform used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11122/19]

Catherine Murphy

Question:

78. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has engaged and or consulted with a public relations online advertising agency regarding social media advertising and online promoted content in 2018 and to date in 2019; the amount spent by company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11139/19]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

I propose to take Questions Nos. 77 and 78 together.

My Department engages in advertising and public awareness campaigns where there is important information that needs to be brought to the attention of citizens.  Social media and online promoted content play a significant role in this connection.  Examples of where my Department has advertised using social media have included public information campaigns in relation to the Online Passport Renewals Service and on the theme of ‘Getting Ireland Brexit Ready’.

Details of relevant online advertising campaigns carried out in 2018 and in 2019 and commercial firms that have assisted in this regard to date are as follows:

Online Passport Renewals Service

- In Q1 2018, my Department concentrated on promoting the Online Passport Renewal Service as a fast and secure way for adults to renew their passports. Specific activities included advertisements on social media platforms, print ads, press releases and attendance at relevant promotional events, as well as participation by the Director of the Passport Service in over 25 interviews on regional radio stations.

- In Q4 2018 the service was expanded to include online renewal of children’s passports, a passport card for children and a wider cohort of adults eligible to renew online.  This expanded service means that all Irish citizens can now renew their passports online 24/7 from anywhere in the world. My Department ran a three week public information campaign including advertisements on social media platforms, print ads and radio ads. The success of this campaign has led to a significant increase in online renewal applications in Q1 2019.

- The direct costs of online and social media advertising to raise public awareness in this regard are set out in Table 1 below.

Ireland’s Campaign for Election to the UN Security Council

- On July 2nd  2018, the Taoiseach and I publicly launched Ireland’s campaign to secure a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council in June 2020 for the 2021-2022 term. Ireland’s campaign is premised on three themes: Empathy, Partnership and Independence. To coincide with this launch, my Department used social media platforms to promote public awareness of Ireland’s campaign online and the direct costs incurred in this regard are set out in Table 1 below.

Government Brexit Update and ‘Getting Ireland Brexit Ready’

- The Government Brexit Update email service and the Getting Ireland Brexit Ready public information campaign have formed part of the Government’s overall strategy to keep citizens fully informed and up-to date on the implications and challenges of Brexit.

- The Update is issuing on a regular basis via a commercial provider (MailChimp) and provides information on latest developments in the ongoing Brexit negotiations, on the latest available research publications and on engagement at Government level. It also highlights the range of business supports that are available through the various Government Departments and State agencies.

- My Department also coordinated a Government-wide ‘Getting Ireland Brexit Ready Campaign’ which I and Ministers Humphreys and Creed launched together on 20 September.  This campaign updated citizens, communities and businesses about Brexit preparedness and support measures that are available as well as on public workshop events that were held over successive weeks throughout October and the last two weeks in November. A programme of awareness raising via online and social media platforms also took place.  Costs incurred in this regard are set out in Table 1 below.

Other Projects

- My Department has also engaged in social media promotion of certain other initiatives and projects that relate to Ireland’s foreign policy activities. During 2018 and to date in 2019 these have comprised:

- Commissioning, in conjunction with the Royal Irish Academy, and first public performance at the UN General Assembly of a new work of poetry by Evan Boland (“Our Future Will Become The Past of Other Women”) to mark the centenary of women’s suffrage in December 2018;

- Ireland’s participation (by video) in the 2 December 2018 'Global Citizen Mandela 100' concert; and

- The launch of Ireland’s new policy for international development, ‘A Better World’, on 28 February.

  Table 1: Online Advertising and Public Awareness Campaigns Expenditure 2018 – to date

Campaign/Theme	Supplier	Cost to date
Online Passport Renewals (March 2018-June 2018)	Twitter	€473.55
UN Security Council Campaign July 2018	Twitter and Facebook	€461
Government Brexit Update (Jan 2018 – to date)	Twitter and MailChimp	€1,396.69
Online Passport Renewals (December 2018-January 2019)	PHD Media (Online, Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin)	€38,118.21
A Better World, Evan Boland and Mandela 100	Twitter	€516.61

Brexit Negotiations

Questions (79)

Micheál Martin

Question:

79. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if there will be tweaks or legal interpretations put on the backstop in the withdrawal treaty as reported in an editorial (details supplied). [10593/19]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

The Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland, including its backstop provisions, is an integral part of the Withdrawal Agreement. The EU has consistently made clear that the Withdrawal Agreement will not be renegotiated and nothing can be agreed that contradicts or undermines the legal operability of the backstop.

In a joint statement with President Juncker Prime Minister May acknowledged the EU position as set out in the letter of Presidents Tusk and Juncker of 14 January. This letter made clear that the EU will not agree to anything that changes or is inconsistent with the Withdrawal Agreement.

Following their meeting on 20 February, Prime Minister May and President Juncker tasked their teams to explore what further reassurance could be given with regard to the backstop to underline once again its temporary nature and give the appropriate legal assurances to both sides. They also agreed that in the context of the work on the future relationship their teams should look at  the role alternative arrangements could play in replacing the backstop, and whether additions or changes to the Political Declaration could be made, consistent with EU and UK Government positions, that increased confidence in the focus and ambition of both sides in delivering the future partnership envisaged as soon as possible.

Discussions between the European Commission and the UK Government are continuing.

Brexit Supports

Questions (80)

Lisa Chambers

Question:

80. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has formally raised the issue at EU level of a financial aid package for Ireland in the event of a no-deal Brexit. [11155/19]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade

Making the case for supporting measures at EU level that recognise Brexit represents a serious disturbance to the Irish economy is a key pillar of the Government’s response to Brexit.

There is a firm understanding at EU level of the unique and disproportionate impact that Brexit will have on Ireland. This has been reflected in a number of concrete measures and commitments to date, such as the EIB’s support for the Government’s Brexit Loan Scheme.  In its Contingency Action Plan of 13 November 2018, the European Commission confirmed that it would support Ireland in finding solutions addressing the specific challenges of Irish businesses.

In November 2017, the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation met with EU Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager to discuss, amongst other issues, the impact of Brexit on Irish businesses. Since November 2017, the Department of Business Enterprise and Innovation has been working closely with the Commission and DG Competition since November 2017 through the Irish/EU Technical Working Group on State Aid. The objective of the Group is to scope and design schemes to support enterprises impacted by Brexit in line with State Aid rules.

On 24 January 2019, Minister Humphreys met with Commissioner Vestager. The meeting focused on the severe challenges that Irish businesses will face when the UK leaves the EU and the need for appropriate and timely State supports. It was agreed that Irish officials will continue to work closely with the Commissioner's team in addressing any State Aid issues that may arise to ensure a rapid and appropriate response as the ultimate shape of Brexit and its firm-level implications become known. Should issues arise that require an approach that does not fit within the existing rules, this will be raised as part of the Group discussions. The Commissioner emphasised that the Commission stands ready to act urgently in mitigation against the impacts of Brexit on Irish firms.

In addition, Minister Creed held a bilateral meeting with Commissioner Hogan (DG Agriculture and Rural Development) on 28 January to discuss the potential impact of a no deal Brexit on the Irish agrifood and fisheries sectors. Minister Creed stressed the need to deploy market response measures, including exceptional aid, under the CAP to provide necessary supports to Ireland's agrifood sectors. Commissioner Hogan reiterated the EU’s readiness to respond and support Ireland and in particular, challenges facing Irish farmers and the agrifood sector, given our specific exposure to the UK market. Commissioner Hogan and Minister Creed agreed to remain in close contact as the situation develops and more clarity emerges about the nature of the UK’s departure.

This is an ongoing process, and the Government will continue to carefully examine what supports can be provided to assist businesses, particularly in a no deal scenario.

Question No. 81 answered with Question No. 74.

Overseas Development Aid

Questions (82)

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

82. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to recognise the rights of thousands of volunteers who help deliver programmes (details supplied) on the ground; his plans to ensure equality monitoring of Irish Aid volunteers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11236/19]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

 In the Government's new development cooperation policy 'A Better World' launched by the Taoiseach last week, we have committed to increase our engagement with Irish people and organisations involved in all aspects of our development cooperation, including Irish volunteers in developing countries and those who have returned to Ireland.  

Ireland's policy on overseas volunteering is set out in the Volunteering Initiative, which promotes skills-based, sustainable volunteering overseas, working in partnership with third parties. As part of its work to take the commitments outlined in 'A Better World' forward, my Department will commence a review of our approach to overseas volunteering during 2019.  This review will aim to ensure that our approach keeps pace with the evolving discourse on volunteering for development, and also with the development of best practice on promoting equality and diversity at home and abroad. The Department will consult with relevant stakeholders to take this work forward.

Departmental Agencies Expenditure

Questions (83)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

83. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Finance the amount spent on social media advertising and online promoted content (details supplied) in 2018 and to date in 2019, by campaign and social media platform used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11121/19]

Written answers

Minister for Finance

The following table contains the information requested.

Year	Description	Amount
2018	Switch Your Bank* (of which: YouTube)   *all recoupable from the banks**	€402,210 (€8,896)
2019	Nil	€ 000

**The Switch Your Bank campaign is funded, in its entirety, by AIB and Permanent TSB, as part of a range of competition measures agreed with the European Commission to raise awareness and promote customer switching of financial products.

- The Department of Finance facilitates this campaign as part of its remit to ensure that consumers are protected within the financial sector in Ireland and to ensure a healthy level of competition.

- The contract  with Language Communications permitted them to appoint subcontractors for provision of services.

- Phase one of the public awareness campaign cost €738,000 in total.

- Phase two of the public awareness campaign will cost €405,900 in total.

- An additional €369 was spent on web hosting for the Switch Your Bank campaign.

Departmental Advertising Expenditure

Questions (84)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

84. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Finance if he has engaged and-or consulted with a public relations online advertising agency regarding social media advertising and online promoted content in 2018 and to date in 2019; and the amount spent by company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11138/19]

Written answers

Minister for Finance

In 2018, my Department engaged Language Communications to promote the Switch Your Bank Campaign.  The cost was €402,210 and the Switch Your Bank campaign is funded, in its entirety, by AIB and Permanent TSB, as part of a range of competition measures agreed with the European Commission to raise awareness and promote customer switching of financial products.   

My Department facilitates this campaign as part of its remit to ensure that consumers are protected within the financial sector in Ireland and to ensure a healthy level of competition.

My Department has not engaged or consulted with any public relations online advertising agency regarding social media advertising and online promoted content to date in 2019. 

Customs and Excise Staff

Questions (85)

Michael McGrath

Question:

85. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the additional number of customs officers who have been hired by the Revenue Commissioners and in employment; the locations of these officers; the new posts based in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11191/19]

Written answers

Minister for Finance

In September 2018, the Government granted approval in principle for the phased recruitment of an additional 600 Revenue staff to meet the challenges posed by Brexit.  Budget 2019 provided Revenue with the funding needed for 270 of the additional 600 staff to be recruited during 2019 to manage an orderly UK withdrawal.

Following the Government decision to give greater priority to the preparations for a No Deal Brexit in December 2018, Revenue has appointed over 250 additional staff to customs roles in the period 1 September 2018 to 28 February 2019.

The following table provides details of the 250 staff appointed during the period 1 September 2018 to 28 February 2019:

Location	Number
Munster	33
Border Midlands and West	11
Dublin	181
Wexford	20
Rest of Leinster	5
Total	250

An additional 150 staff are to be appointed to customs and related roles by Revenue between now and 29 March 2019.  Revenue are on track to have appointed approximately 400 additional staff to customs and related roles for Brexit during the period September 2018 to 29 March 2019.

A total of 16 staff in Cork are dealing with local customs control work and customs audit. 13 of these staff are assigned to a recently created Customs hub while three are attached to Revenue’s Large Corporates Division.   Revenue recently held internal competitions for trade facilitation posts at CO, EO and HEO level. These panels are now in place and include the potential to fill an additional 10 trade facilitation posts in Cork Airport and Port.

Resources will be deployed based on the evolving business needs and to tackle any risks as they emerge.

In the event of a no-deal Brexit, Revenue plans to appoint a further 200 staff during the rest of 2019. This would bring the total additional staff recruited to the 600 staff required to deal with the UK withdrawal from the EU.

Irish Airlines Superannuation Scheme

Questions (86)

Clare Daly

Question:

86. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 70 of 27 February 2019, if a copy of the formal notification sent by his Department advising of its position in regard to the public sector transfer network to a pension scheme (details supplied) on 14 June 2018 will be provided. [10970/19]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

I will draw the Deputy's attention to the contents of a document (details supplied).

Letter

Departmental Banking

Questions (87)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

87. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the sanctions he gave in order to open public bank accounts in the name of An Garda Síochána in each of the years 2011 to 2018 and to date in 2019; the locations of the accounts that were opened; the purpose of the accounts that were opened; the details of the sanctions he gave in order to close public bank accounts in the name of An Garda Síochána in each of the years 2011 to 2018 and to date in 2019; the locations of the accounts that were closed; the purpose of the accounts that were closed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10973/19]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

The Deputy will appreciate that Government Departments and Offices in discharging their legal roles and responsibilities operate bank accounts with commercial banks to facilitate payments and receipts generated in the normal course of their activities.

Such accounts are "public bank accounts" under Section 18 of the Exchequer and Audit Departments Act, 1866 on the basis that they will contain public moneys, either as a result of Voted moneys being deposited in them in order to make payments, or receipts being lodged by Departmental customers, which will ultimately be lodged to the Departmental Vote with the Paymaster General, or receipts being lodged for transfer to the Central Fund.  The effect of that Section of the 1866 Act is also that the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform may determine which accounts are opened as public bank accounts for public moneys.

In that context, the schedule attached to this reply sets out the details of public bank accounts for An Garda Síochána sanctioned by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform since its establishment in July 2011.  The Deputy may wish to note, in terms of the number of individual accounts listed in the schedule for 2013, that in the course of a reconciliation exercise undertaken across Vote areas at that time in relation to public bank accounts my Department confirmed sanction for a substantial number of Garda District Imprest Accounts advised by the Garda authorities already in existence. An Garda Síochána informed my Department that owing to the elapse of time and file archiving practices, reconfirmation of the sanction was required.

As can be seen from the schedule attached to this reply that reflecting the administrative structures in place in An Garda Síochána, these public bank accounts are held at individual Garda Districts across the country in order for the relevant Superintendents to discharge their functions as District Officers reflecting the administrative structures.

As with all other features of financial management the relevant Accounting Officer for a Vote is ultimately responsible for the effective oversight of his or her Department’s or Office’s public bank accounts.

The requested tabular information is contained in the following link.

Garda Bank Accounts

Departmental Banking

Questions (88)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

88. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the details of the sanctions given in order to open public bank accounts in the name of the Irish Prison Service in each of the years 2011 to 2018 and to date in 2019; the location of the accounts opened; the purpose of the accounts opened; the details of the sanctions given in order to close public bank accounts in the name of the Irish Prison Service in each of the years 2011 to 2018 and to date in 2019; the location of the accounts that were closed; the purpose of the accounts that were closed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10977/19]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

The schedule attached to this reply sets out the details of public bank accounts for Irish Prison Service in each of the years 2011 to 2018 and to date in 2019 sanctioned by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform since its establishment in July 2011.

As can be seen from the schedule attached to this reply and reflecting the administrative structures in place in the Irish Prison Service, these public bank accounts are held at individual campuses and centres across the country in order for the relevant Governor to discharge their functions as Officers reflecting the administrative structures

As with all other features of financial management the relevant Accounting Officer for a Vote is ultimately responsible for the effective oversight of his or her Department’s or Office’s public bank accounts.  

IPS Bank Accounts Opened

Title	Function/Purpose	Year of Sanction	Bank	Address
PMG  Payments and Receipts	Ongoing exchequer funding for the Irish Prison service	2018	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 1
Arbour Hill -Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 2
Arbour Hill-Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 3
Arbour Hill-PAPF (Prisoner Assist Programme Fund) Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 4
Castlerea-Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 5
Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 6
Castlerea-PAPF Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 7
Cork-Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 8
Cork-Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 9
Cork-PAPF Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 10
Limerick-Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 11
Limerick-Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 12
PAPF Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 13
Loughan-Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 14
Loughan-Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 15
PAPF Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 16
Mountjoy-Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 17
Mountjoy-Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 18
Mountjoy-IPAPF Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 19
Midlands-Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 20
Midlands-Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 21
Midlands-PAPF Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 22
Portlaoise-Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 23
Portlaoise-Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 24
Portlaoise-PAPF Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 25
Shelton Abbey-Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 26
Shelton Abbey-Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 27
Shelton Abbey-PAPF Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 28
Cloverhill Remand Prison-Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 29
Cloverhill Remand Prison-Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 30
Cloverhill Remand Prison-PAPF Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 31
Wheatfield-Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 32
Wheatfield-Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 33
Wheatfield-PAPF Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 34
IPS (Irish Prison Service) HQ – Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 35
IPS HQ –  Hub Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 36
IPS HQ –  IPS Illness & Maternity Benefit Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 37
IPS College, Portlaoise-Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 38
OGS Arbour Hill – Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 39
PSEC, Cloverhill Road – Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 40
Prison Officers Welfare Service – Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 41
Building Services Division – Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2019	Danske Bank	International House, 3 Harbourmaster Place, IFSC, Dublin 42
Illness and Maternity Benefits	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2017	Bank of Ireland	Main Street, Longford
Purchase Card	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2017	Bank of Ireland	Collinstown Cross, Dublin 7
Dochas Centre Prisoner Assist Programme	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2012	Bank of Ireland	North Circular Road, Phibsborough
Gratuity	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2012	Bank of Ireland	BOI, Main Street,  Co Longford
Tuck Shop Account-Dochas Centre	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2011	Bank of Ireland	Phibsborough, Dublin 7.
IPS HQ-Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Main Street, Longford
Arbour Hill -Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Smithfield, Dublin 7
Arbour Hill-Prisoner Assist Programme Fund (PAPF)	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Smithfield, Dublin 8
Arbour Hill Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Smithfield, Dublin 9
Beladd Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Portlaiose
Castlerea Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Castlerea, Co Roscommon
Castlerea Prsioner Assist Programme Fund (Current A/C)	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Castlerea, Co Roscommon
Castlerea Prsioner Assist Programme Fund (Deposit A/C)	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Castlerea, Co Roscommon
Castlerea Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Castlerea, Co Roscommon
Cloverhill Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Clondalkin, Dublin 22
Cork Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Blackpool, Cork
Cork Prisoner Assist Programme Fund	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Blackpool, Cork
Cork Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Blackpool, Cork
HQ Longford HQ Hub Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Main Street, Longford
Limerick Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	125 O'Connell Street, Co Limerick
Limerick Prisoner Assist Programme Fund	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	126 O'Connell Street, Co Limerick
Limerick Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	127 O'Connell Street, Co Limerick
Loughan House Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Manorhamilton, Co Leitrim
Loughan House Prisoner Assist Programme Fund	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Manorhamilton, Co Leitrim
Loughan House Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Manorhamilton, Co Leitrim
Midlands Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Portlaoise
Midlands Prisoner Assist Programme fund Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Portlaoise
Midlands Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Portlaoise
Mountjoy Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Phibsborough
Mountjoy Prisoner Assist programme Fund	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Phibsborough
Mountjoy Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Phibsborough
OSG Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Smnithfield, Dublin 7
Portlaoise Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Portlaoise
Portlaoise Prisoner Assist Programme Fund	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Portlaoise
Portlaoise Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Portlaoise
PSEC Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Clondalkin, D 22
Shelton Abbey Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Arklow, Co Wicklow
Shelton Abbey Prisoner Assist Programme Fund	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Arklow, Co Wicklow
Shelton Abbey Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Arklow, Co Wicklow
St Pats Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	College Green, D 2
St Pats Prisoner Assist Programme Fund	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Phibsborough, D 7
St Pats Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Phibsborough, D 7
Trianing unit Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Phibsborough, D 7
Training Unit Prisoner Assist Programme Fund	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Phibsborough, D 7
Training Unit Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Phibsborough, D 7
Wheatfield Imprest Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Clondalkin, D 22
Wheatfield Prisoner Assist Programme Fund	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Clondalkin, D 22
Wheatfield Prisoner Tuck Shop Account	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Clondalkin, D 22
Imprest Account Sep 2013	EFT, Internet Banking and cash, Cheque Lodgements	2013	Bank of Ireland	Mian Street Longford

IPS Bank Accounts Closed

NAME	Address	Opened/Closed
Castlerea
Prisoner Assist Programme Fund (Deposit a/c)	Bank of Ireland, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.	Closed October 2018
HQ
IPSC Purchase Card Accounts	Bank of Ireland, Longford	Closed October 2018
St. Pat's
Imprest Account	Bank of Ireland, College Green, Dublin 2.	Closed 2013
Tuck Shop Account	Bank of Ireland, Phibsborough, Dublin 7.	Closed 2018
Prisoner Assist Programme Fund	Bank of Ireland, Phibsborough, Dublin 7.	Closed 2015
Training Unit.
Imprest Account	Bank of Ireland, Phibsborough, Dublin 7.	Closed 2013
Tuck Shop Account	Bank of Ireland, Phibsborough, Dublin 7.	Closed 2018
Prisoner Assist Programme Fund	Bank of Ireland, Phibsborough, Dublin 7.	Closed 2015

National Monuments

Questions (89)

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

89. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a detailed geophysical technological search, in addition to archaeology excavation, will be carried out on the relevant parts of Kilmainham Gaol to determine the exact location of the remains of persons (details supplied). [11016/19]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

There are no plans currently to carry out either geophysical or archaeological examinations at Kilmainham Gaol in respect of the Invincibles' burial place.

Irish Airlines Superannuation Scheme

Questions (90)

Clare Daly

Question:

90. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 70 of 27 February 2019, if a formal notification advising of his position in regard to the public sector transfer network and a scheme (details supplied) was circulated to all members of the public sector transfer network in June 2018. [11082/19]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

A notification was issued to all Personnel Officers/HR managers in December 2014 advising them that current applications were being put on hold and that further applications for transfer of service under the Public Service Transfer Service and the IASS were not being accepted pending further details from the IASS. A formal notification was not issued to Personnel Officers/HR Managers in June 2018.

Departmental Advertising Expenditure

Questions (91)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

91. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the amount spent on social media advertising and online promoted content (details supplied) in 2018 and to date in 2019 by campaign and social media platform used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11126/19]

Written answers

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

I have set out in the following table details of the amount spent on social media advertising and online promoted content by means of sidebar, above the line and pop website ads in 2018 and to date in 2019.

Amount Spent on Social Media

Year	Campaign	Platform	Cost
2018	IGEES AP Recruitment  Competition	Facebook and LinkedIn (Pop Website Ads)	€553.50
2018	MyGovID Media Campaign	Programmatic Google Pay-per-click (Side Bar)	€17,818.78
		Total	€18,372.28
2019	IGEES AP Recruitment Competition	Facebook and LinkedIn (Pop Website Ads)	€500.00
		Total	€500.00