Dick Spring
Ceist:211 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Energy if he will give a breakdown of the amount of money he intends to spend on consultancy services in 1991; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Departmental Expenditure on Consultancy Services.
The 1991 Estimates make provision for consultancy services spending of £260.000 in the Energy Vote and £30.000 in the Forestry Vote.
Given that the necessity to engage external expertise often depends on prevailing policy circumstances and requirements, my Department adopt a flexible approach in relation to the engagement of consultancy expertise. While it is thus not possible to give a definitive breakdown at this juncture. I can indicate to the Deputy my expectation that approximately 50 per cent of my Department's consultancy spending on the energy side will continue to focus on geological and geophysical studies in relation to hydrocarbons and minerals exploration and development. There will also be continuing work in relation to gas safety standards.
On the forestry side, it may be necessary to engage external expertise to assist my Department in devising a strategy for the development of the timber processing industry.