€8k forked out on red carpets for Pope’s visit
Carpet for visit THE Office of Public Works splashed out more than €8,000 on red carpets for Pope Francis’ visit, it has been revealed.
The figure was part of a €17.8million spend by the department last August.
A Freedom of Information showed three firms supplied red carpets.
Mark Rafferty Solutions Ltd was paid €1,248; Martyn Flooring got €3,632 and Migira Ltd trading as Trefor received €3,518.
A range of companies providing cleaning, catering and security services were also used for the trip.
Speaking at a Dail committee this week, Minister Kevin Moran defended the OPW outlay.
He said: “We stepped up to the mark, as requested by the Taoiseach, to make the visit worthwhile and showcase Ireland abroad.”
Actavo Events Ireland Ltd was paid €4.92million for temporary site works, Eamon O’boyle & Associates got €2million for event management and Eventus Ltd received €1.19m for the supply of marquees and toilets.
Prospect Design Ltd got €728 for Papal flags while NHC Construction Ltd received €17,277 for the painting of the Papal Cross.
The OPW also paid PTD Cleaning Services Ltd €14,949 for graffiti removal services.