Ministers' civilian drivers still being paid despite being replaced

Senior Government sources have confirmed that there is no provision in the drivers' contracts for them being stood down on security grounds.

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said the total cost of employing his two civilian drivers was €85,094, excluding PRSI. Picture: Sam Boal/Rollingnews.ie

Ministers' civilian drivers, who were replaced by garda protection officers in recent weeks, are still being paid because of an issue with their severance packages.

The group of civilian drivers already replaced and who are those about to be replaced are contracted to remain in their positions until their minister is either sacked or resigns.