Justifying expenses

I agree with the letter of Godwin Golightly (Sept 20) regarding TDs’ expenses.

The expenses claimed by TDs are very far in excess of the actual cost. One in every five TDs claimed in excess of €50,000 last year, many with expenses unvouched, in addition to other perks of phones and printing. A TD living less than 25km from Leinster House receives €12,000 a year for travel and if living 360km from the Dáil, receives €37,850. How can these payments be justified at any time?

Brian McNamara