The amount spent on external public relations and communications consultants by my Department since its formation in March 2011 is €4,828. Communications Clinic were paid €3,860 and Montague Communications were paid €968 for the development,delivery and management of a publicity and advertising campaign in respect of Bike Week, 2011. Internal Departmental resources are used for such matters as far as is possible. However, occasionally external assistance may be required.
By way of comparison, I would draw the Deputy's attention to PQ 305 of the 14th December 2011 which shows that the average spend on external public relations and communications in the years 2006 to 2010 inclusive was €149,120.