The travel and subsistence policy of my Department is detailed within the Department’s Financial Policies and Procedures. This policy notes that travel and subsistence payments are governed by the relevant circulars in place by the Department of Finance and Department of Public Expenditure. It also details that the overarching principle is to minimise costs associated with official travel. With regard to the type of transport used, it notes that all official travel should be by the shortest practicable route and by the cheapest practicable mode of transport.
There are 4 agencies under the aegis of my Department: Pobal, The Charities Regulatory Authority, Water Safety Ireland, and the Western Development Commission. They are all independent agencies who manage their own corporate matters, corporate compliance/policies, and staffing issues.