Stormont remuneration committee holds first meeting

The newly formed independent board which will set Northern Ireland Assembly members’ salaries and pensions has met for the first time.

The Independent Remuneration Board, established by the Assembly Members (Independent Remuneration Board) Act earlier this year, replaced the previous Independent Financial Review Panel which had been defunct for a number of years.

Its remit includes providing MLAs with a level of remuneration which fairly reflects the complexity and importance of their work as MLAs and does not deter anyone from seeking election on financial grounds.

It is also to ensure that public money is spent with probity, accountability, value for money and transparency.

It will set salaries and pensions for MLAs as well as the remuneration of additional officeholders including the speaker, deputy speakers, Assembly Commission members and committee chairs – as well as ministers.

Alan Lowry was appointed chairman of the board, along with members Craig Griffiths and Robert Herron.

Mr Lowry said public confidence in elected representatives is vital.

“We are aware that the issue of members’ salaries attracts significant public and media scrutiny,” he said.

“The board’s scope and statutory independence are designed to ensure decisions regarding MLA pay are made through an objective, expert and transparent process which is detached from the political arena.

“Public confidence in our political representatives is vital, and the board looks forward to undertaking our work which will strengthen this fundamental pillar of our society.”