Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)

Senator Bradford is correct in respect of the point raised by him this afternoon. I am aware of a former Minister who did not take his severance allowance but wished to donate it to his political party. However, when he inquired of the Department of Finance as to whether he could do so, he was told he could not do it, that it was illegal. This is the position in this regard. However, the Minister is correct, there is a provision whereby a Member of either House who does not wish to take his or her full salary may donate it to the State.