Vol. 440 No. 7
99 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance whether he attended St. Patrick's Day or other celebration overseas recently; the location which he visited; the number, rank and status of each of his entourage; the mode of transport used; the number of flights involved; the standard and location of accommodation used; the total cost to the taxpayer of the trip; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
In my capacity as Minister for Finance in this State, I took part and reviewed the annual St. Patrick's Day parades in Los Angeles and in San Diego in the United States of America.
During the course of my visit I had discussions with Chilton O'Connor, Investment Bankers, had breakfast with the Irish Congress of Southern California which included dignitaries such as the Mayor of San Diego, members of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and Mr. Dan Mulvihill of the American Ireland Fund. I visited the Irish Community in Orange County and addressed the Irish Brothers of St. Patrick at their annual fund raising fair which was attended by thousands of Americans and Irish-Americans. I spoke at a reception in Beverly Hills for the Irish Community which had representatives of up to 17 Irish-American business-financial investment groups, sporting and cultural organisations. I also did several interviews for radio-newspapers.
I was accompanied on this occasion by three civil servants; my private secretary, press officer and personal assistant. This journey consisted of four scheduled flights. The accommodation used in both San Diego and Los Angeles was standard. It is too early yet for my Department to have the full details of the costs involved but they are estimated to total £23,300.
