Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not have the figure for the scale of the savings achieved in the Department of the Taoiseach. We will include the estimated savings in the report to be circulated. A number of historical allowances are paid to certain grades only. The footwear allowance will now be paid every two years to those who engage in outdoor duties. I mentioned the chairpersons and delegates allowance which was abolished on 18 September. The allowance paid to the personal assistant in the Taoiseach's private office and the allowance paid to the person who looks after the Taoiseach's diary will not be paid to new beneficiaries. The retention element of the allowances paid to the private secretaries of the Taoiseach and the Minister of State will not be retained by new beneficiaries. Clearly, the Department is engaging with staff on other allowances subject to review or negotiation. I will try to put together the best estimate of what the savings will be from the relatively small number of allowances in the Department of the Taoiseach which have been modified, abolished or will not be paid to new beneficiaries.

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