John Cummins (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is important to state that Revenue does not have an issue with the 100% element. I have to make that business case to the Department of public expenditure regarding changes in that respect.The Senator has rightly pointed out that the lower amount for councillors, relative to the rate for Oireachtas Members, is in recognition of the fact that councillors do not, by and large, have offices. We must land at a figure for that business case but I am anxious for that process to be brought to a conclusion as early as possible. It is important to say that the existing scheme is still available. The commitment I will make is that should there be changes to the scheme, anybody making a claim under the existing requirements will not be negatively impacted. I implore councillors availing of the current scheme to do so because safety and security is of the utmost importance. I will work with the entire House to make progress on this issue.