Kildare TD decides not to take €4,000 pay rise due to 'current climate'

South Kildare TD, Seán Ó Fearghaíl has confirmed he won't avail of the pay rise of almost €4,000 for Dail deputies, effective from April 1 last.

The Ceann Comhairle would have been in line for a pay hike of almost €4,000, as part of pay restoration to thousands of civil servants.

Oireachtas authorities confirmed that the Kildare-based TD has waived his entitlement to a salary rise.

Deputy O’Fearghail will retain his salary at €157,540, instead of the increased payment of €161,451. Other TDs who do not hold ministerial posts or office are now in receipt of an increase of €2,700, bringing their annual income to €89,965.

However, Sinn Féin has instructed its 23 TDs to waiver the increase with the exception of the  two party whips who will draw down their increased allowances worth  €14,400 in total.

The Ceann Comhairle stated: “I have decided to opt out of the pay rise awarded to TDs as part of pay restoration, that took effect on  April 1.

"I have taken this decision based on the current climate of pay countrywide”.