McAleese says she will also take 10% pay cut

President Mary McAleese is to give up 10 per cent of her salary in line with yesterday’s announcement that Government ministers would take the reduction.

A short statement from Áras an Úachtarain said: “President McAleese has this morning informed the Government of her intention to surrender 10 per cent of her salary in light of the current national budgetary situation.”

Mrs McAleese is paid just over €325,000, meaning her salary will drop by approximately €32,500.

Ministers, junior ministers and some senior civil servants will take a 10 per cent cut in current total pay, Mr Lenihan said told the Dáil during yesterday’s Budget speech.

“Other public servants in leadership and senior positions may wish to consider whether it is appropriate for them to make a similar move in current circumstances,” he added.