John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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Question 130: To ask the Minister for Finance if he will confirm the number of credit cards issued by him and to whom; the criteria for issuing such cards; the credit card company used; if a competitive process was used to select the company; if the facility has had to be withdrawn from any person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11556/11]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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There are currently 5 departmental credit cards issued to officials in my Department. My Private Secretary and my Press Officer both have been issued with credit cards. These cards are used generally for official expenses in connection with travel, including accommodation and subsistence expenses, and official hospitality.

The three remaining cards are for the general usage of the Department in the purchase of a range of goods and services, mainly the online purchase of publications and for booking training courses and conferences.

I am not aware of any case in which the facility has had to be withdrawn. In the normal course, officials would surrender an official credit card when they are no longer dealing with the business function for which it was intended or when the card is no longer required for that purpose.

The credit card in use is Bank of Ireland Visa and this was awarded following a tendering process.