464. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Education the number of mobile phones issued to staff in 2022, 2023 and to date in 2024; and the total costs expended by her Department on handsets and phones bills over the same timeframe. [44857/24]

My Department’s current mobile phone contract was awarded to Three Ireland, following a procurement process under the OGP Framework Agreement for the provision of Mobile Voice and Data Communications. This contract is due to expire in April 2025 subject to terms and conditions in this agreement. The monthly tariff provides for all calls, texts and a limited data allowance. The standard mobile device is provided at no cost. Mobile phones are purchased, on an exceptional basis, for accessibility, functionality or specific business purposes that cannot be met effectively by the standard device.

Details of gross costs for mobile phone devices for the period 2022-2024 are set out below. The function, not the grade, of the Officer is the key determinant in the provision of phones. Therefore, in this regard, grade related information is not readily available.

My Department’s policy on mobile telephony, both voice and data, sets out the relevant procedures and protocols that govern the use of mobile phones. This policy is acknowledged, and adherence to the terms and conditions governing usage is confirmed, by all subscribers. Charges arising are reviewed and must be approved. Where personal charges arise, these are recouped by the subscriber to the Department’s Vote.

Mobile Phone Costs

2022 €276,051

2023 €358,909

2024 (to October 30th) €448,086