Plans to cut number of TDs could save taxpayer €12m annually

GOVERNMENT plans to cut back the number of TDs could see up to 20 less deputies in the Dáil and save taxpayers €12m a year.

It was also revealed yesterday that a promised referendum on abolishing the 60-member Seanad, the Upper House, will not be held until the second half of next year.

Environment Minister Phil Hogan revealed the measures which will also include a cut in presidential election spending limits.