Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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There would probably be broad public agreement on that point.

The Defence Forces' allowances have been the subject of much focus, but I wish to discuss the allowances for staff within the Department of Defence. They replicate allowances across the public sector. Mr. Howard referred to the need for rebranding while speaking with my colleague, Deputy Donohoe. If I could give one piece of advice, it would be to rebrand quickly. Much of the public debate is based on how the allowances are viewed and uses terms such as the "franking machine allowance", the "switchboard allowance", etc. What is the franking machine allowance, who gets it and what is it for? In 2011, only 1.5 people were in receipt of it at a cost of €2,588. The small allowances are dominating the public debate. If we could have greater public understanding of what they entail, it would be helpful.