The Minister for the Environment, Mr Cullen, was accused yesterday of trying to behave like a racing driver rather than a member of Cabinet because of his use of photos with models for promotions.
Sinn Féin TD Mr Arthur Morgan complained that the Minister was "merely presenting women as ornaments in campaigns" to "enhance a photo and get him publicity" rather than encouraging the participation of women in politics and decision-making.
Mr Cullen "seems to have a grá to be in photos with models who are wearing brightly coloured and unusual attire", the Louth TD said. "He's a Government Minister, not Michael Schumacher, and should face up to the responsibility of his position."
The deputy was commenting on written parliamentary questions he had submitted to the Minister seeking Mr Cullen's view "on the fact that it is inappropriate for his Department to use models in promotions for public information campaigns", and asking "when will he cease this practice, and if he will make a statement on the matter?"
He also asked the Minister "the amount of money spent by his Department for models who have appeared in promotions for public information campaigns run by his Department in the past three years".
However, Mr Cullen's reply stated that "subject only to general guidance from my Department, the format of public information campaigns and the attached manner in which they are conducted are matters for the selected firm", chosen from those who tender for campaigns.
He added that "consequently a detailed breakdown of information sought" on the costs of models "would not be available in my Department". He explained: "My Department utilises a number of consultancy firms from time to time to promote awareness of important issues relating to my Department's functions. Invitations to tender would require the successful firms to implement high-impact awareness campaigns including a national campaign launch, information leaflets, design, printing and dissemination of posters, instructional videos, local and national advertising or general media briefings."
Mr Morgan dismissed the reply as "typically evasive, and he did not in any way address the central concern which I raised in relation to the inappropriate nature of the practice". The Minister was "in a position of responsibility and ought to know better. There is absolutely no justification for spending taxpayers' money so wastefully for such an improper purpose".
