Mr. Seamus McCarthy:

The figures the Deputy is quoting are from a briefing note that was prepared. It is not actually in the appropriation accounts of the Secretary General, but they are the figures for the actual remuneration paid in the year 2022. It is the cash amount. What may have been quoted in the newspapers is the current salary level, which, obviously, can change during the year. Therefore, the figures that are in the appropriation accounts are what was actually paid in the year rather than the rate at any point in time in the year. In the 2021 appropriation accounts, what was given was the salary rate at the end of 2021. It is now more consistent with what is generally provided in respect of other State bodies.