The government is to tighten up controls on the allowance paid to the leaders of parties in the Dáil. The move, which was announced as part of the review of the coalition's programme, follows the alleged misuse of the fund by former Taoiseach, Charles Haughey. Other measures promised in the review include more taxis for Dublin before Christmas; full employment; and an auditing officer from outside the Department of Agriculture to administer farmers' grants. Speaking at the publication of the document, Social and Community Affairs Minister, Dermot Ahern, said that Fianna Fáil aims to go the full term in government.
Throughout the summer, Fianna Fáil and Progressive Democrats Ministers have been examining how their original Action Programme for the Millennium can be developed. In a document published today, they say that confidence in our political system has been severely shaken by the recent wave of revelations right across public life and they promise to foster a new culture of public accountability. They also underline their ongoing commitment to social partnership.
