Fury over new councillors' allowance system

In a move by the Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales, councillors across Wales could be entitled to an unlimited financial loss allowance, as well as being reimbursed the costs of care while they are attending meetings for a dependent child or adult of up to £403 a month.

If approved by Welshpool Town Council, it could cost the council up to £100,000 per year – a hike of £60 per household, according to Robert Robertson, clerk to Welshpool Town Council.

Other new measures being put to community and town councils includes £500 for up to three members with special responsibilities – for example a committee chair, as well as councillors being able to claim a loss of earnings for any meetings they've attended.

Town and community councils will be able to vote on the new system from May 8.

Welshpool Councillor Estelle Bleivas has described the new system as "appalling and "unfair" for taxpayers.

She said: "It's absolutely outrageous, when I was told about the plans my jaw dropped to the floor. How is this being considered at a time when cuts are being made all the time.

"Are the Remuneration Panel on another planet? They ought to get in the real world. Not only could this bankrupt councils, it could have a severe effect on already struggling taxpayers.

"We've got 16 councillors on Welshpool Town Council and if all of us took these proposed allowances, that will get worryingly expensive, we've worked out in the region of up to £100,000.

"I've always done this role on a voluntary basis, once you're being paid taxpayer's money, they own you and at politics at this level that isn't right, it's about councillors and residents working together.

"I just hope common-sense will prevail and councillors make the right decision."

The Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales in an independent body appointed by Welsh Ministers to decide what payments members of county councils, town and community councils are entitled to receive.

Sara Parry, a spokeswoman for Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales, said: "Community and town councils have been able to decide to make payments since 2013. Community and town councillors have important roles and people who willingly give up their time to serve their local community should not be out of pocket.

"The allowances are there to encourage a diverse range of people to participate in local democracy, and to reflect the responsibilities of holding public office – some town and community councils have significant assets and run local services.

"Community and town councils are best placed to decide what is affordable and what will best support their members to carry out their duties. Individuals members are able to decline to claim any allowance, even if the council decides to pay them."

Welshpool Town Council will discuss the new system at a meeting next on May 24.