asked the Minister for the Environment the expenditure in his Department on information technology equipment, on the engagement of consultancy firms for information technology projects and on direct computer personnel staffing costs in each year from 1986 to 1988 inclusive, and the projected amount for 1989; and the extent to which the management grades in his own Department are involved in the development and use of information technology.

The information requested by the Deputy is being compiled in my Department and will be forwarded to him as soon as possible.