Number of ex-ministers hand back payments

The figures show that while numerous former ministers enjoy huge pensions, some are volunteering money back to the State because of the condition of the public finances.

A number of them completely relinquished ministerial pensions or severance payments to which they were entitled last year.

Fianna Fáil leader Micheal Martin surrendered all €61,318 of the severance payment he was due after resigning from Cabinet last year.