74k spent on directory enquires.

I read in the Sunday Times,that a department spend 74k phoning directory enquires.( They may well be phoning their customers,so all above board)
Apparently this service is available free on-line.

A reader suggested that if you phone directory enquires ,they can put you through to the number requested, therefore, there would be no record of the number.

Do those of you who have a business keep an eye an private calls/Directory enquires/mobile calls ?

I know where I worked in the past it was a free for all..Since "Inkgate" Im wondering if this will be the next on the list..Does anyone know if it is possible to get phone bill amounts under freedom of information?

Directory Enquiries is free only from Eircom Landlines, but of course the real cost only comes when they connect you to the number requested. It's about
30 cents per minute

Is it not free online?
Either way, wasn't that the point of the readers letter,that the caller requests to be connected to the number,meaning the number doesn't show up on the system..