Richard Boyd Barrett: Calls ministries bill a 'gravy train'

Richard Boyd Barrett objected to the order on the ministries and secretaries bill, calling it a 'gravy train' from Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and so‑called independents that awards new jobs, allowances and ministries. He argued the measure would loot the public purse, spread the spoils of an election and could even breach the constitution.

Summary of objection

Barrett objected to the order for the ministries and secretaries bill, describing it as a blatant and outrageous attempt to create more ministries, jobs and allowances. He framed the bill as a political pay‑out to spread the spoils of an election.

Allegation of financial misuse

He characterised the proposals as looting the public purse with new allowances and new ministries, warning that the package would increase costs and benefit political appointees rather than the public.

Procedural and debate concerns

Barrett criticised the absence of a proposed debate on the bill and repeatedly accused the government of procedural overreach. He also said, "We tried strokes last week to steal opposition time," highlighting tensions over parliamentary time and process.

Constitutional warning

He warned that the new ministries and allowances could be "quite possibly in breach of the constitution," signalling a legal as well as a political objection and underscoring potential consequences if the bill proceeds unchanged.