07/06/2012

Over €240,000 In Unspent Allowances Returned To Government

New figures have revealed that TDs and senators returned more than €240,000 in unspent allowances to the State's coffers last year.

The new figures come after revamped expenses rules, within which Oireachtas members can opt to claim either a lower, unvouched flat payment or a higher sum that must be backed up with receipts.

Parliamentary standard allowances include a travel and accommodation allowance based on the distance the person travels to Leinster House from their home, and it also covers expenses such as office and communication costs.

The monies are paid out automatically each month and then at the end of the year any of the monies outside of the unvouched flat payment that cannot be backed up with receipts must be returned.

Last year, ahead of the election, 29 TDs, senators or ministers repaid unspent allowances amounting to just over €21,549. Two members claimed an additional €1,180. After the general election, 62 members of the 31st Dail repaid €219,284 to the state coffers. However, three members claimed an additional €14,730 between them.

Any TDs or senators who get more than the lower unvouched allowance are subject to an audit for the amount they received. The firm Mazars is auditing the allowances.

(H)


Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

01 February 2019
Labour Calls For Higher Allowances For Defence Forces Families
A Labour TD has raised the issue of restoration of allowances for members of the Defence Forces with the Taoiseach. Deputy Willie Penrose's comments follow the reduction of money for such families.
03 October 2012
Cuts To Defence Forces Allowances 'Unacceptable'
The organisation which represents soldiers, sailors and aircrew within the Defence Forces has branded as totally unacceptable the decision to review or abolish allowances paid to personnel. The Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association (PDFORRA) says it is the only uniformed service not entitled to claim overtime.
27 April 2012
Union Will Resist Moves To Cut Allowances
The CPSU, the union representing civil service workers, has warned that any move by Government to reduce allowances currently paid to staff will inevitably lead to a confrontation.
11 February 2010
TDs To Clock In For Expenses
New proposals for TD expenses may see politicians clocking in at the Daíl in order to claim their travel expenses it has emerged.
21 January 2009
TDs & Senators Expenses Reformed
TDs and Senators could feel a pinch in their pockets as the current system of expenses is reformed. The Oireachtas Commission has recommended a revamping of the controversial system of expenses for TDs and senators, which could see their allowances reduced if they fail to turn up for sittings and committee meetings.