asked the Minister for the Public Service the estimated annual cost of the Office of a Minister of State on the inclusive basis of a Minister's allowance, superannuation, expenses, State car, petrol and annual replacement cost, Garda drivers' allowances, one higher executive officer, two clerical officers, one clerical assistant and annual office rental and secretariat.
Written Answers. - Office of Minister of State Costs.
399.
The estimated annual cost of the Office of a Minister of State on the basis set out in the question is as follows:—
1. The allowance is currently £6,159 a year.
2. Superannuation benefits payable to or in respect of a Minister of State are provided on a non-contributory basis. The cost has not been actuarially assessed but, as the minimum qualifying period for a Minister of State's pension is three years and is payable irrespective of age, the cost in individual cases could vary very considerably. Furthermore if the person becomes eligible for a pension as a Minister of the Government no pension as a Minister of State is payable. Accordingly, it is not feasible to give any reliable guide to the cost.
3. Expenses, including travel and subsistence, telegrams, car hire, receptions etc. could approximate £1,000 per annum.
4. The cost of a State car, including petrol, replacement costs and charges in respect of two Garda drivers, amounts to £33,500 a year.
5. The cost of staffing a Minister of State's office with one higher executive officer, two clerical officers and one clerical assistant and including overheads such as rent, rates, office equipment, stationery and messenger and cleaning services, is around £32,000 a year.