Vol. 250 No. 8
asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement concerning the proposed removal of the special allowances within the pay structure of his Department; the total number of senior officials receiving such allowances; and if he will ensure the fullest consultation prior to any decision on such a matter.
59.
asked the Minister for Finance if the proposed cuts in the special salary allowances of officials of his Department will apply to officials currently serving.
I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle. to take Questions Nos. 58 and 59 together.
Proposals affecting the pay scales and grading structure in the Department of Finance, including the position of serving officers, are the subject of continuing consultation with the staff. Particulars concerning the present pay scales and grading structure are set out in the Directory of State Services.
Is the report in the newspapers concerning the proposed removal of the special allowances in relation to senior civil servants true?
It is not intended to reduce the pay of officers at present serving in any grade.
Will the allowances be abolished? I did not ask about the pay. I am referring specifically to special allowances within the Department of Finance. Will they be abolished?
I have no information that there is any intention to do that. It is a matter of continuing negotiation between the staff and the Minister. The scales are set out in the Directory of State Services and it is not proposed to reduce the pay of officers serving at present in any grade.
Is it not the case that there was an announcement in the newspapers——
If the Deputy wants to believe everything he reads in the newspapers that is a matter for him. Senator Mullins dealt with that yesterday very effectively.
Is it not a fact that that there was an announcement that these special allowances were being removed? This would be a reduction in salaries. Is this report true or untrue? Can the Parliamentary Secretary make a categorical statement?
I suggest the Deputy does not believe everything he reads in the papers.
Is the report untrue?
This is a separate question.
Is it true or untrue?
I am calling Question No. 60.
On a point of order——
On a point of order I do not even have to answer the questions on the Order Paper, never mind the supplementaries.
Is the report untrue?
I have called Question No. 60. Would the Deputy please resume his seat?
For the first time in my life, a Cheann Comhairle, I have seen men cutting the grass on Leinster Lawn in December.
