Oireachtas extravagance is a national scandal

The letter from Michael O’Connell (Irish Examiner Oct 9) on the pensions and lump sums paid to former and sitting members of Dáil Eireann was factual and timely.

Timely, in the sense that with the country in financial crisis, how these public representatives can justify these outlandish and exorbitant lump sums and pensions I do not know.

Seanad Éireann is another cosy cartel, a convalescent home for defeated TDs until the next general election.

Is it any wonder there is so much unrest and unease in the workplace of Ireland?

There would seem to be an allowance payable to TDs and senators for every move they make, despite fully equipped rent-free offices and staffing, together with free travel, postage, phone calls with expenses paid for every night meeting they attend with community associations, or whatever.

The list of financial concessions is endless.

Such extravagance by those who should lead by example is a national scandal.

MP Caddell

Ballincurrig

Co Cork