Newtonabbey Times: Council spending is questioned in audit
The TPA has said Newtownabbey Council, along with Northern Ireland’s 25 other local authorities, is still spending more on mileage payments than is recommended by the government, six months on from when the matter was first highlighted by the public spending watchdog.
Each council, it found, was spending 65p a mile for casual use when HM Revenue & Customs has recommended paying staff 45p per mile.
Rosie Greer, TPA Northern Ireland coordinator, said: “Is it deplorable that councils continue to pay these extravagant mileage rates, whilst at the same time complaining that their finances are squeezed?
“Paying staff 45p per mile is fair, and is in line with the HMRC recommended rate. The money saved should be used for frontline services – not spent lining the pockets of council staff.”
