Members resigning or losing their seats receive a termination lump sum and termination payments prior to receiving pension entitlements, subject to certain conditions.
A former Member may not be in receipt of termination payments and a pension at the same time, although they may choose to cease termination payments and apply for a pension.
Termination lump sum
To qualify for the termination lump sum, a Member must:
- have at least six months continuous services as a Member of the Oireachtas.
- not become a Member of the following Oireachtas or immediately become an MEP or be appointed by the Government to a full-time position.
If the above conditions are satisfied, a termination lump sum equivalent to two months of salary, including salary allowances held over the period of continuous service, will be payable. This lump sum is subject to the rules of the Revenue Commissioners regarding severance payments.
Payments
In addition to a lump sum, monthly termination payments are payable if a Member has at least three years of continuous service. The number and rate of payments is based on the number of years of continuous service.
Contact an expert
Last updated: Thu, 28 Nov 2024