Dáil debates

Tuesday, 14 February 2012

Ceisteanna - Questions (Resumed)

Departmental Expenditure

4:00 pm

Photo of Micheál MartinMicheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 13: To ask the Taoiseach the amounts paid month on month since march 2011 on photography in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3597/12]

Photo of Enda KennyEnda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The total spend by my Department on photography since March 2011 is €30,629. Increasingly, my Department utilises its own staff to take photographs in-house, thereby reducing costs. The comparable cost in 2008, for example, was €83,398. However, for major events and inward State visits my Department continues to use the services of a professional photographic agency. There were a number of major events last year, including the visit of President Obama. Royal visit costs were met by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The monthly breakdown of photography costs from March 2011 to date was as follows: March 2011, €2,559; April 2011, €0; May 2011, €160; June 2011, €14,051; July 2011, €7,090; August 2011, €1,015: September 2011, €683; October 2011, €0; November 2011, €561; December 2011, €4,510; and January 2012 to date, €0. Deputy Martin has all the photographs he wants.

Photo of Micheál MartinMicheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Taoiseach looked resplendent in all the photographs. My compliments to the photographer. I sought specific information and the answer speaks for itself.

Photo of Enda KennyEnda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

We have tried to reduce photography costs by having in-house photography done by staff, except in the case of formal State visits and high level opportunities.

Photo of Michael Healy-RaeMichael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Does the Department not have any more bills to pay for make up?