Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

The proposal will be brought through the sub-committee and the Committee on Procedure and Privileges.

Another important matter is Oireachtas expenditure. We know that virtually no sector of our society is immune from the negative impact of the economic downturn. It is important that we in the Oireachtas show leadership by putting our own ship in order. I understand that the Oireachtas Commission has recently brought forward a range of proposals which will yield €4 million in savings on a full year basis. This will incorporate a 10% overall reduction in Members' expenses. The proposals represent a response from Deputies and Senators across all parties to the need for Oireachtas Members to play a leading role in finding savings in State spending.

In this regard, the Oireachtas Commission has recommended the adjustments to the Minister for Finance, which include a reduction in the daily allowance paid to Dublin Members and a reduction in the number of Oireachtas committees. I note there is no mention of Oireachtas committees in the Fine Gael motion even though there has been much talk about them. I wonder if there has been a change of mind on that matter in Fine Gael, but I merely speculate.

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