Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 June 2015
38. Deputy John Halligan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on whether, based on the important work done at local level and the great commitment provided by local councillors throughout the country, those councillors who have no alternative source of income should be paid the equivalent of the average industrial wage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18269/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraA range of financial supports are already in place to assist councillors in their work. These include an annual representational payment of €16,565, annual expenses allowances, a mobile phone allowance, and allowances for Chairs.
The representational payment is recognition of the work that councillors volunteer to undertake when they stand for election and subsequently serve their community. It is not, and was never meant to be, a salary. Elected members have a commitment to their role that extends beyond financial matters; while councillors know that the representational payment is not fully commensurate with their workload, they continue to undertake their functions with an admirable degree of dedication.
Significant changes have been made to local government structures by the provisions of the Local Government Reform Act 2014. I have recently initiated a review in relation to the operation of the new structures and arrangements generally. This appraisal is being undertaken by a broadly representative Advisory Group and a Forum for engagement with the Association of Irish Local Government. The review will provide a sound evidence base upon which to consider any further changes to the operation of the local government system in Ireland.
I have no doubt that the workload of local authority members in the context of the new structures, and the associated financial arrangements, will arise for consideration in the course of the review and full account will be taken of all views expressed on this, and other matters, as the work proceeds.
