Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
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Question 186: To ask the Minister for Finance the amount of money spent on hotel accommodation by his Department and each State agency under the aegis of his Department for each of the years 2004 to date in 2008; if he will provide the information available in tabular readable form. [46681/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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In general civil servants whose work requires them to stay overnight at a location distant from their home or headquarters are paid a fixed sum which is designed to cover the cost of accommodation, three meals and a small amount for incidentals. There are different rates for different locations. Accommodation is generally arranged by the officers themselves and in most cases my department is not informed whether the officer has stayed in a hotel or in other accommodation. In this situation it is not possible to separate out accommodation costs from other costs.

The amounts listed below show the total amount paid out in overnight expenses by my Department for official travel.

In relation to the bodies under the aegis of my Department the figures are currently being collated and will be forwarded to the Deputy directly when this process has been completed.

Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
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Question 187: To ask the Minister for Finance the procurement arrangements in place in his Department and each State agency under the aegis of his Department for the sourcing of hotel accommodation for him, for his Departmental staff and staff at each State agency, when overnight accommodation is necessary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46696/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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In general, where an overnight stay is required, the staff of my Department and agencies are paid a fixed sum which covers overnight expenses i.e. the cost of accommodation, three meals and a small amount for incidentals. However, to take account of the wide variation in circumstances that can arise with foreign travel, in some cases, instead of an overall subsistence rate, the cost of the accommodation can be separately claimed by the official. In such cases, the rate of subsistence is reduced. There are different rates for different locations. Accommodation is generally arranged by the officers themselves.

From time to time the Revenue Commissioners books hotels for conferences, seminars etc. Given the geographic spread of Revenue staff, it will be appreciated that such events may include overnight accommodation. To ensure optimum value for money, the accommodation costs for staff can be included as part of the overall package agreed with the hotel, with corresponding reductions in subsistence payments. Procurement for this type of accommodation is carried out in accordance with EU and National guidelines.

When I travel abroad on official business the relevant Embassy advises on the most suitable accommodation. The location of the accommodation would usually take into account the cost; the distance from the airport/meeting venues etc.