ALLOWANCE INCREASE FOR LOCAL COUNCILLORS

DISTRICT Councils are to be permitted to increase the allowances paid to their councillors by approximately 30 per cent with effect from 1 July 2001.

Minister of the Environment Sam Foster made the announcement following a review of councillors’ existing remuneration.

Councillors receive three types of allowances – basic allowance; attendance allowance; and special responsibility allowance. The maximum basic allowance will rise from £2,652 to £4,000 – an amount automatically payable to each councillor in recognition of his/her constituency work and role as elected representative.

The levels of special responsibility allowance have also increased which is directly linked to population, whilst attendance allowance will be held at the present limit of £22.

Mr Foster said: “In reviewing the ceilings on councillors’ allowances, I have sought to strike a balance between ensuring proper remuneration for councillors in recognition of their important role and safeguarding the interests of ratepayers.

“The National Association of Councillors did in fact recommend a higher ceiling on allowances. However, I have a duty to ratepayers to make these necessary increases as reasonable as possible. I believe I have achieved a proper balance.” (AMcE)