Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I am not aware of any issues that arise that are not within the guidelines. Regarding departmental press offices and so forth, as the Deputy knows the technologies available today can be released by e-mail, through text messaging, paper press release, etc. It is necessary that Government be able to provide immediate up-to-date information with 24-hour media coverage involved. I understand that all of these issues are looked at within Departments in terms of available resources and there has been a significant reduction in all headings.

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