Flynn to give up Independent TD allowance

Mayo TD Beverly Flynn has decided give up her Independent TD's allowance following a meeting with the Taoiseach, Brian Cowen.

Ms Flynn had attracted widespread criticism in recent days for insisting that she was entitled to the untaxed €41,000-a-year allowance despite being readmitted to Fianna Fáil last year.

The money was being allocated on top of her €100,000-a-year Dáil salary.

She confirmed this morning that she would be giving up the payment after holding talks on the matter with Mr Cowen yesterday.

She said the allowance was used to benefit her constituents and she was deeply hurt by some media outlets portraying her as dishonest.