asked the Minister for Finance if he will state the names of provincial newspapers, periodicals or publications in which the State advertised in each of the years 1954 to 1957, inclusive, the cost in each case, and the circulation of the publication in question; and what considerations are taken into account in the allocation of such advertising.
Written Answers. - State Advertising.
37.
As regards the first portion of the question, I would refer the Deputy to the information given in reply to a question on 28th May, 1957, in columns 1961-1970 of the Official Report.
That information is in respect of the financial years 1954-55 to 1956-57 but it is suggested that it may meet the Deputy's requirements. The preparation of returns of this nature entails a special investigation and the compilation of the particulars sought in respect of the periods not covered in the answer of 28th May, 1957, would involve a substantial expenditure of time and labour and an addition to administrative costs which, in my opinion, would not be justifiable.
While inquiries are made from time to time about the circulation of newspapers and periodicals, figures of circulation as at any particular date are not available for all the newspapers and periodicals concerned—the number of which is very great.
In placing advertisements, Departments make their selection from among newspapers and periodicals according as they judge that their requirements as regards coverage can most adequately and economically be satisfied.