Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The cost of the communications unit in February was approximately €20,189. The projected cost for the unit in 2010 is €242,269 with €112,220 being a direct cost to my Department and the balance being paid by three other Departments which have staff seconded to the unit.

The projected cost for 2010 represents a reduction of 6% on the 2009 cost, 20% on the 2008 cost and 27% on the 2007 cost. This has been achieved through greater efficiency in the operation of the unit and the application of Government policy on reducing staff numbers.

I have no plans at present to change the role of the unit.

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