New expenses regime for TDs

TDs are to be issued with new elecronic devices to allow them to clock in to work so they can claim their expenses.

TDs are to be issued with new electronic devices to allow them to clock in to work so they can claim their expenses.

Under a new allowances regime approved last night, TDs and Senators must attend 120 out of 150 Dáil sitting days in order to claim certain expenses.

However they will still be entitled to travel allowances of up to €37,000 a year, and unvouched office expenses of up to €15,000.

Independent TD Finian McGrath says the new regime will improve transparency.

"My reaction is that (the new measures) are common-sense, they are sensible, they are progressive and they are something we should have been doing for years," Deputy McGrath said.

"I warmly welcome them. I think it's about accountability, I think it's about transparency in public life, and I think it's something that the taxpayers will welcome very, very strongly."

However Green Party Senator Dan Boyle said further reforms to TDs' expenses were needed.

"There's a reluctance to change," Senator Boyle said.

"This is a change… I think the extent of change that is needed is something that many members of both houses of the Oireachtas will be dragged screaming towards, but I think it has to be acknowledged that this is a step in the right direction.