John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 220: To ask the Minister for Finance the expenditure in 2007 on public relations; his views on whether this is value for money; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23657/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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As Minister for Finance I seek to ensure that value for money is achieved in all areas of expenditure. This includes projects where public relations services are utilised. My department requires that every department and office conduct a review of all such contracts twice yearly. Departments and offices must confirm, amongst other things, that value for money is being achieved. In addition, all such expenditure is open to selection for both internal and external audit, or for discussion with appropriate Oireachtas committees.

The following table sets out expenditure in 2007 on contracts for public relations services by my department and the related offices.