asked the Minister for Finance whether the "Derry Journal" has ceased to receive Government advertisements, and, if so, whether he will state the reason or reasons for such action.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - GOVERNMENT ADVERTISEMENTS.
There is no adequate reason why public funds should be expended on advertisements in newspapers not printed and published in the Saorstát in preference to newspapers which are so produced, and it has been decided that Government advertisements should not be inserted in newspapers outside the Saorstát save in exceptional circumstances.
When they join the Party?
Is the Minister aware that these advertisements in the "Derry Journal" ceased when the "Derry Journal" dared to criticise a speech made by the Minister in which he was cooing and billing to Sir James Craig?
I am not.
Is the Minister further aware that the advertisements are appearing in Unionist papers in Derry which have not the same circulation in Donegal that the "Derry Journal" has, nor half the circulation? How can the Minister account for that? Is he empowered to use public moneys for the purpose of what is tantamount to blackmailing the "Derry Journal" because it criticised his speech?
Will the Minister give to the House a statement showing the whole of the money expended on newspaper advertisements by the State, divided in relation to the journals to which that advertising is given?
That is a separate question.
I will put it down later.
Including election advertisements.