A CONTROVERSIAL UNVOUCHED payment given to independent TDs and Senators is set to be reviewed by the Government.

Earlier this week, Fine Gael and Labour Senators blocked a proposal from independent members of the Seanad that would see them vouch for how they spend their ‘leaders’ allowance’.

Under the allowance, independent TDs are paid an extra €41,152 annually, while independent Senators receive €23,383. The payment is designed to be used for administration, policymaking and advice.

But the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform today confirmed that Minister Brendan Howlin is currently reviewing the allowance system. The minister has stressed in recent weeks that he intends to make changes, saying:

I intend to bring proposals to Government shortly in relation to the Party Leader’s Allowance.

Fine Gael Senator Cait Keane yesterday welcomed the commitment to review the payment. She insisted that the independent Senators’ motion “could not be carried” on the bill alongside which it was put forward, but said she “commend[ed] the sentiment” of the motion, adding:

I welcome the news that the Government is reviewing the unvouched Leader’s Allowance that is claimed by Independent members of the Oireachtas. I believe that it’s necessary to ensure that all political party allowances, including those allocated to Independents, are accounted for.

Keane said environment minister Phil Hogan had reiterated that concerns over the leaders’ allowance “would be examined” by the Government.

More: Government blocks Seanad move to abolish unvouched independents’ allowance>