Fidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I second the amendment.

The Minister will be aware that Senator Bradford and I have spoken at length on this issue. We strongly believe that an allowance of €21,045 that has been allocated to us should no longer be paid to Fine Gael, a party from which both of us have been expelled. This money is made available to fund the political system. As parliamentarians who work on behalf of their constituents, Senator Bradford and I are still members of that system. As a mark of honour, we do not ask that the money be paid to us or the reform alliance. Instead, it should be returned to the Exchequer as there is no basis for paying it to the Fine Gael Party. If it is not returned, the Minister, as the occupant of the key reforming financial Department, will have elected to endorse the status quo and an insider job.

People have repeatedly stated they want reform of the political system and accepting this amendment would be a small step in that direction. The Bill is not about funding elections or saving staff. We cited examples in last week's debate of staff who were let go mid-term because they had no protection when Members fell out with their parties. The purpose of the payment of this allowance to the political parties is to fill party coffers in a disingenuous manner. I ask the Minister to support us and allow the amendment to be a mark of change. He has shown great intent as a reforming Minister in many other areas. The amendment presents him with a flag to fly in that regard. I look forward to his reply.