Taoiseach Enda Kenny and his wife Fionnuala enjoy a cup of tea in the staff room after casting their votes at St. Patrick's De La Salle Boys National School, Castlebar, Co. Mayo in the European Fiscal Treaty Referendum.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny and his wife Fionnuala enjoy a cup of tea in the staff room after casting their votes at St. Patrick's De La Salle Boys National School, Castlebar, Co. Mayo in the European Fiscal Treaty Referendum.

THE CHAIRMAN OF the Dáil’s spending watchdog has caused controversy this morning by claiming there is a strong case to be made for the State to cover the travel costs of ministers’ spouses for trade missions and other government trips in some circumstances.

Responding to reports that he inquired about the possibility of his wife accompanying him on foreign trips while he was a junior minister in 2007, Fianna Fáil deputy John McGuinness told Morning Ireland that there are circumstances that should be considered when ministers are away for a long period, or if there are health, business or family grounds.

He also outlined his view that wives and husbands should be paid for on certain State visits, such as St Patrick’s Day festivities, as the family is a central part of such events.

What do you think about his comments? Should the State cover the travel costs of ministers’ spouses?

