asked the Minister for Finance if he will state the total cost to the State of the Presidential Party's visit to the United States; whether the expense incurred was in respect of the President alone; and, if not, for which other members of the party travelling the whole or part of the expenses was paid.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Presidential Visit to United States.
21.
The information requested in the first part of the Deputy's Question is not yet available.
As regards the remaining parts of the Question, the expenditure falling to be met from Irish State funds in connection with the visit will be in respect of all the members of the President's Party.
Is the Minister aware that the cost of the President's visit to the United States is infinitesimal compared with the inestimable prestige and goodwill achieved for this country by his visit? Further, is the Minister aware that the cost to the State was far greater for the vice-regal establishment, including travelling expenses, which was maintained by Deputy Dr. Browne's friends, the ascendancy class?
That is an entirely separate question.
Did the Minister write the question out for the Deputy?
The President did a good job but he had a handicap with the Minister for External Affairs tied on to him.