Ballymena councillors could get big pay-off

SOME long-serving Ballymena councillors could be in for a bumper pay day as they end their political careers.
By The Newsroom
Published 9th Jul 2013, 14:59 BST

Environment Minister, Alex Attwood, has brought forward legislation on a severance scheme for councillors who will be leaving politics in the run-up to local government reorganisation.

The scheme, which will open in August, is designed to recognise long-serving councillors who will not be standing for re-election next year.

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The minister said: “Elections to the 11 new councils will take place in 2014 and there will be 120 fewer seats than at present. Many of our long-serving councillors will not be standing for re-election.

“These are councillors who worked hard for their communities. I believe, and it has been widely accepted, that it is right to acknowledge these councillors as they leave council life.”

The scheme includes a minimum eligibility period of 12 years (cumulatively), graduated yearly payments to ensure that those with longer periods of service are treated fairly, and a cap on individual payments of £35,000.

Related topics:Ballymena