Barry Cowen dismisses pay rise criticism

Fianna Fáil’s Barry Cowen has dismissed criticism of TDs accepting a €5,400 pay restoration as other opposition TDs pledged to return their salary increases.

Sinn Féin deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald

Sinn Féin have now lodged a Dáil motion to block pay restoration for TDs, which is linked to rises for senior civil servants due under the Lansdowne Road Agreement.

Social Protection Minister Leo Varadkar yesterday explained that ordinary TD pay will continue to be linked to civil service restoration rates. Ministers and members of government, including the Taoiseach and Tánaiste, have decided not to take increases due to them.