Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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442. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the total cost of public relations/communications to his Department in 2013; the spend to date in 2014; the total estimate for 2014; the corresponding figures for each agency funded from his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31525/14]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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My Departmental remit includes complex policy areas, oversight of State regulation and service provision across key strategic services such as energy and public broadcasting, and regulation of sectors such as mining and hydrocarbon exploration. Given the technical complexity, economic significance and community interest in these areas, there is a requirement to disseminate information and to address specific issues as they arise. The Department therefore necessarily incurs some expenditure on public relations from time to time.

In procuring these services, my Department always seeks to ensure value for money and the keeping of expenditure to the minimum necessary. Expenditure on public relations in my Department was €20,115 in 2013 and to date in 2014 was €4,359.

In relation to the information sought regarding the agencies under the aegis of my Department this is an operational matter for each Agency. I will notify the relevant agencies of the question and request them to respond directly to the Deputy with their replies.