asked the Minister for Finance if he would state the average amount paid to ex-collectors of taxes, now known as tax assistants, who work in Dublin city and county, under the supervision at present of the inspector of taxes, Dublin General, by way of (a) travelling expenses and (b) subsistence allowances, for each year since 1966.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tax Assistants' Expenses.
33.
The average amounts paid to the officials referred to in respect of travelling expenses and subsistence allowances, taken together, in each of the years 1966 to 1970 are: 1966, £210; 1967, £200; 1968, £215; 1969, £238; 1970, £287.
The official records do not distinguish between (a) travelling expenses and (b) subsistence allowances since they are claimed together on a monthly basis. The compilation of such information would involve the examination of each individual claim for the past five years and would not justify the time and expense involved.
The indications are that the amounts included in the claims in respect of subsistence allowances would not be significant.
I accept the latter part of the Minister's explanation that there would be an undue amount of time involved. I did not realise that point when I put down the question. However, does the Minister not realise how miserable these sums are for people who are constantly out? These are miserable sums. I take it the Minister appreciates that?
I find it difficult to accept that. I have given average figures. They vary from one officer to another depending on the length of time he is out. I do not think we can deduce from these figures alone that they are miserable allowances. It depends on what was done to receive them.