Tablet PCs are going to be handed out to TDs and Senators later this year, it has emerged.

The Oireachtas Commission has approved a plan to buy the devices through a tendering process.

Members of the Dáil and Seanad will each get one free of charge, but if they lose their seat, they will have to hand it back.

It is hoped the cost of buying the computers will be recouped in savings on printing costs over three years.