Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I normally agree with much of what is said by the previous speaker, but on this occasion I think he doth protest too much on the question of Oireachtas salaries and expenses. To provide clarification and to put an end to the circus of some people attempting to be holier than holy, I repeat the request I made in the House some months ago that the Minister for Finance write to each Member asking if he or she wishes to receive his or her full salary. If Members do not wish to receive their full salary, the balance should simply remain with the Exchequer. This would put an end to the circus of people pretending they are living on "X" amount, even though they are in receipt of a much greater salary and using the balance for party purposes.