John Perry: My wife was in €38,000-a-year job on temp basis only

A Fine Gael TD who appointed his wife to a €38,000-a-year job in his constituency office says she was only filling in on a temporary basis.

Sligo-North Leitrim Deputy John Perry has now appointed a party worker, who previously worked with him while he was Minister of State, to the role of Parliamentary Assistant.

The Taoiseach had described Perry’s decision to give his wife a taxpayer-funded job as “unwise” - while Fianna Fáil says it is time for politicians to “face up” to the issue around hiring relatives.

Former Junior Business Minister John Perry says his wife Maria took up the role of parliamentary assistant last July on a voluntary basis until December.

Deputy Perry said that she was “eminently qualified” for the job and he appointed her to the role on a paid basis in January, with a view to her leaving in April - at which point Thomas Walsh will take over the job.

In spite of the widespread public criticism, Fine Gael says there will be no party repercussions for John Perry.

“All staff appointments are made at the discretion of particular TDs and Senators,” said a party statement.

“Appointments must satisfy criteria set by the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission.”