The life of Brian the pensioner

FOLLOWING 27 years in Dáil Éireann, the last 1,036 days will be the most lucrative for Taoiseach Brian Cowen as he begins life as a political pensioner.

The fact he spent more than two years as head of Government and clocked up more than 10 years as a minister means he will be able to claim 60% of his departing salary into old age.

This will contribute €81,476 towards his annual reward. On top of this, Mr Cowen will be entitled to almost €50,000 a year linked to the 27 years he served as a TD.