Fine Gael TD for Limerick, Patrick O’Donovan, has welcomed confirmation by An Tánaiste, Eamon Gilmore TD, that the legislation to address the un-vouched nature of Independent TDs and Senators receiving a leader’s allowance will be introduced during this new Dáíl term, and is he said a further example of the Government commitment to real Dáil Reform.
“I welcome the fact that this issue is to be finally rectified during this Dáil term, after being allowed get completely out of control under the last two Fianna Fáil Taoisigh, where Independents needed to be kept onside in order to keep the then FF/PD/Green Government in office. It is a clear example of where no accountability exists and is a relic of a time where the public’s money was splashed around without any reason whatsoever.
“Fifteen Independent TDs are paid a leaders’ allowance of €41,152 and Independent Senators are paid €23,383 in addition to their salary and expenses, with the total amount being paid out since 2001 adding up to €4.19 million.
“The purpose of a leader’s allowance is to provide funds to political parties that they can use for administration, policymaking and advice. Why this allowance was ever made available to Independent TDs and Senators is beyond me, considering they are supposed to be “Independents” who exactly are they claiming to be leading?.”