I can inform the Deputy that photographic services are only used by my Department to mark high profile events and when considered absolutely necessary. Consideration is given at all times to the cost involved and best value for money is always a priority when sourcing such services. In this regard it should be noted that this service was tendered for in May 2011 and Maxwell Photography were awarded the contract as their tender represented the best value for money. The photography costs for my Department since my appointment is set out in tabular form:
Occasions for which photographers were booked by the Press Office
|
Date
|
Company
|
Cost
|
Launch of the Visa Waiver Scheme by The Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, T.D., the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Eamon Gilmore, T.D., the Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence, Alan Shatter, T.D. and the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Leo Varadkar, T.D.
|
30 June 2011
|
Maxwell Photography
|
€607.42
|
Appointment of Deputy Commissioner Noirín O’Sullivan
|
22 March 2011
|
Maxwell Photography
|
€500.34
|
Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence, Alan Shatter, T.D. and UK Immigration Minister, Damien Green, M.P., sign Joint Statement and the accompanying Memorandum of Understanding on visa data exchange.
|
20 December 2011
|
Maxwell Photography
|
€526.35
|
Conference in Dublin Castle entitled How to Elect More Women? The event was part funded by the European Social Fund (ESF). To promote the event and to comply with the publicity requirements associated with ESF projects, a photographer was booked.
|
20 January 2012
|
Maxwell Photography
|
€762.29
|
Photography service used to mark the historic deployment of civilian immigration officers to Dublin Airport to replace Gardaí.
|
1 February 2012
|
Maxwell Photography
|
€551.35
|
Total Photography Costs to date
|
€2,947.75
|
Finally, the Deputy might wish to note that questions concerning Ministerial allowances are solely a matter for the Oireachtas.