Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 February 2012
662 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Health if he uses a State car; the type of car used; how often he has used it since coming to office; the salary of the person employed to drive the car; the cost of his or her vehicle expenses; if the person employed was previously a State employee; if that person is also in receipt of a State pension; the total cost of the service to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9718/12]
View answerIn line with Government policy, I use my own car for normal official business which is frequent, extensive and nationwide and, for so doing, I am entitled to claim a mileage allowance at the rates laid down by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. My Department has engaged two Civilian Drivers for this purpose. The drivers are paid an annual salary of €32,965. Neither was a State employee and neither is in receipt of a State pension. The total cost of the service is €76,597 for 2011 and €16,089 for 2012. These figures include drivers' pay, Employer's PRSI, drivers' subsistence, mileage and tolls.
