Minister confirms Howlin reviewing TDs' pay and perks

The Junior Finance Minister Brian Hayes has confirmed that the Minister for Public Expenditure Brendan Howlin is reviewing Ministers' salaries and perks ahead of December's Budget.

Mr Hayes' comments come after it was reported today that Minister Howlin is hoping to cut TDs and Senators' travel and subsistence allowances in next year's budget.

These benefits currently cost the taxpayer €11m a year.

There is also talk that a further pay cut may be imposed on Ministers and Mr Hayes has said every bit of expenditure is up for consideration.

He said: "Minister Howlin has already said that the issue (Minister's salaries and perks) is being reviewed by him.

"Obviously in terms of the gerneral budgetary position and public sector pay, all these matters are on the table. Nothing has been excluded and nothing has been included."