Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

To get the message out. The website in question makes provision for web chats with Ministers and the publication of thought-provoking e-mails and letters from members of the public. There are some who use other methods to publicise thought-provoking messages. The website has not yet been used to any great degree for the purpose to which I refer. Is it the Taoiseach's intention to ensure that more of these thought-provoking e-mails will be published and more web chats with Ministers will take place on the website?

At this time last year, the Taoiseach decided to explore the appointing of a single provider of information across all Government Departments as part of a package of cost-cutting measures. However, nothing was done about this. I understand that when a formal tendering process was entered into, the bids received were in excess of the cost relating to the provision of the current service. Will the Taoiseach verify whether this is the case? In other words, will he indicate whether, when he followed through on his intention to appoint a single information provider, the tenders received in excess of the current cost of providing information? I understand that the tender process was carried two years ago. In light of the changed economic circumstances, it might perhaps be worthwhile seeking new tenders because, as has proven to be the case in other sectors, the bids received might be much better value than those previously submitted.

See this speech in context