Three officers of my Department, on a day to day basis, as part of their duties on behalf of my office, the office of the Minister of State at my Department and my Department deal with public relations/media advice. As part of their remit, they deal with all national daily newspapers, over 50 provincial newspapers and magazines, RTE television and radio, 20 local radio stations and all foreign journalists. In addition, these officers make the arrangements for speeches and briefs, the publication of my Department's report and booklets and queries from the general public.
From time to time, my Department receives assistance from two persons working a part-time basis on a number of specific projects from McMahon Sheedy Communications. A total of £19,270.85 has been paid to this firm since my appointment. A total of £25,621.75 was paid in 1994 to Drury Communications Ltd. Sanction was received from the Minister for Finance to engage McMahon Sheedy Communications Limited as public relation consultants.