On taking office, this Government reformed the transport arrangement for Ministers which has radically reduced the cost of travel. The Government decision involved confining the use of State cars from 1 May 2011 to the Taoiseach, Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence. As a result, the average cost of providing transport has been reduced by 65% - from an average cost of €280,000 per minister in 2010 to a current annual estimate of €100,000 per annum.
I now use my own car for official business and have appointed two civilian drivers in accordance with Department of Finance instructions on Ministerial appointments. The travel/mileage allowance rates payable depend on the car engine size and also incorporate a number of expense elements associated with the cost of running a car. These cost elements include insurance, full membership of AA/RAC, road tax and licence. The engine size of my car is 1400cc and the rate applicable is 46.25 cent per kilometre.
The number of miles I have claimed for since 1 May 2011 is 55,695 and the amount is €17,966.15.
A further €857 in respect of travel expenses has been paid to me since taking up office.
There is no Minister of State attached to my Department.