Taxpayers foot the bill for EU presidency costs

Chauffeur-driven vehicles, luxury hotels, and tens of thousands of mementoes — just some of the things the taxpayer will be forking out for during Ireland’s €60m hosting of the EU presidency from next January.

As the country braces itself for a tough budget, the Government is hiring lavish chauffeur services and reserving plush hotels accommodation for visiting EU delegates.

And, contracts worth about €200,000 have been agreed for specially made scarves and neck ties for the VIP guests.