Consultancy Contracts.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 February 2005

Thursday, 17 February 2005

Ceisteanna (113)

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

113 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the number, cost and status of all public relations consultancies, contracts or procurements entered into by or on behalf of his Department or its agents or agencies in the past three years; the terms of reference in each such appointment; the person to whom such persons report and from whom they receive instructions; if any such person or group had any previous contracts, commitments or employment with either of the Government parties. [5508/05]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

The Department has, on limited occasions, employed outside professional public relations advice. Tony O'Brien Communications was employed in 2004 to assist the Department with media relations and was paid a fee of approximately €6,000. Laurie Cearr Associates was employed by the Department for the organisation and management of public relations activities and other work in 2002 and 2004 and was paid approximately €15,000 in total. The public relations arrangements of agencies under the aegis of the Department of Transport are part of their day-to-day operations and a matter for each individually.