Politics

Councillors lobbying for increased pension lump sums of up to €100k

Councillors’ association asks for speedy resolution of issue in run-up to local elections, while senator warns of increasing pressure and burnout among councillors

Association of Irish Local Government has raised the lump sum issue with Darragh O’Brien, Minister for Housing and Local Government. Picture: Fergal Phillips

Councillors are lobbying for larger retirement lump sums amid fears of a potential “exodus” at the local elections.

Their annual representational payment was increased from €18,000 to €25,000 to take account of the increased demands of the job. But they are now seeking a proportional increase in the lump sums – which can be up to €76,500 – which they get when they retire or lose their seats.

The Association of Irish Local Government (AILG), ...