Cowen and ministers at odds on Geoghegan-Quinn pension

TAOISEACH Brian Cowen has refused to call on EU Commissioner Máire Geoghegan-Quinn to forego her lucrative ministerial and TD pensions – even though several of his ministers have done so.

Three separate ministers and the Government chief whip have all suggested that Ms Geoghegan-Quinn, who earns circa €243,000 as EU Commissioner, should consider foregoing her pensions, which combined are worth an estimated €107,000 a year.

Mr Cowen failed to do likewise yesterday, indicating it was Ms Geoghegan-Quinn’s business. Mr Cowen said the Government had already tackled the issue of sitting TDs who claim ministerial pensions, but refused to comment on the commissioner’s case.