Ministers could take pay cut, says Robinson

The North's ministers finalising a cost-saving budget could take a cut in pay and reduce the use of consultants and quangos, First Minister Peter Robinson has said.

Mr Robinson said the cross-party talks at Stormont must deliver a draft budget before Christmas in the wake of Westminster demands for £4bn (€4.7bn) in cuts.

In a speech to the Chief Executive’s Forum in Templepatrick, the DUP leader was seen to hint at the likely shape of a deal.

“On the basis of discussions that have already taken place, I hope that the budget will involve agreements in a whole range of areas, from the use of consultants to the future of quangos, and from the issue of public sector pay to how the Executive can raise new revenue,” he said.

“Final agreement has not yet been reached, but I hope we can make significant progress in the days ahead.”

Mr Robinson appeared to point towards:

* A Civil Service pay freeze;

* A symbolic 5%-10% voluntary cut in ministerial wages;

* Protection for frontline health services;

* But a refusal to introduce water charges or drop free prescriptions, or end free travel for the over-60s.