Fianna Fáil has called for the pensions of former politicians to be taxed at a higher rate after it emerged two of the party’s former taoisigh received €150,000 last year.
Bertie Ahern and Brian Cowen were both paid ministerial pensions of more than €100,000 and TDs’ pensions of close to €50,000. Former Fianna Fáil taoiseach Albert Reynolds received €149,000.
A party spokeswoman said Fianna Fáil had repeatedly made it clear that the cost of top-level public sector pensions was excessive and said it was unfortunate that the Government had not placed an increased levy on such pensions.
Former Fine Gael taoiseach John Bruton received more than €141,000. Mr Bruton, who was in Geneva yesterday where he was speaking at an Irish Funds Industry Association seminar, declined to comment.