Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 412 to 414, inclusive, together.

The Department of Social Protection is committed to ensuring that members of the public are fully aware of the welfare supports and services available to them.

Public information campaigns, including advertising on social media and digital platforms, are an important part of this work.

All campaigns are developed and targeted carefully in collaboration with our media buyer using the best mix of media formats to ensure that the department’s messages reach members of the public effectively, while ensuring value for money.

The total spend in 2021, 2022 and up to 27 November 2023 on advertisements with Google, Meta (Facebook and Instagram) and X (formerly known as Twitter) is €567,486.96 (excluding VAT and fees).

Please see breakdown of expenditure (all figures are ex Vat and fees) on the social media platforms as requested in tabular form:

Google*

2021	€76,628.00
2022	€48,548.00
2023**	€59,188.00
Total	€184,364.00

*Inclusive of display media, YouTube and the display and video 360 platform (DV360).

**Figures available up to 27/11/2023.

Meta (Facebook/Instagram)*

2021	€108,305.61
2022	€66,364.82
2023**	€115,617.97
Total	€290,288.40

*Facebook and Instagram are combined since the rebrand to Meta in 2021

**Figures available up to 15/11/2023.

X (Twitter)

2021	€29,242.31
2022	€21,271.55
2023*	€42,320.70
Total	€92,834.56

*Figures available up to 15/11/2023.