Independents hit back at chief whip’s ‘cheap shot’ over expenses

Independent TDs have hit back at Government chief whip Paul Keogh, who said they put their €41,000 allowance in their “back pocket” without having to account for it.

Kildare TD Catherine Murphy said his comments were a “cheap shot” given that the Government has previously rejected her proposals to cut the allowance and ensure it is vouched.

Legislation to overhaul the leaders’ allowance — which is paid to parties on behalf of each of their TDs, and individually to Independents — is due to come before the Oireachtas before Christmas.