Overview

The Northern Ireland Assembly Members Act 2010 amended the Northern Ireland Act 1998, altering how salaries, allowances, and pensions are determined for members of the Northern Ireland Assembly (Assembly Members). It shifted the responsibility for setting these payments, giving the Assembly more control and flexibility while ensuring transparency.

Description

This Act primarily modified Section 47 and Section 48 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998. Key changes include:

• Salary and Allowance Determination: The Assembly gained the power to determine salaries and allowances for its members, or delegate this responsibility to another designated body. This allows for differential pay based on roles (e.g., Ministers earning more than standard members). Any such determination must be publicly disclosed.
• Salary Adjustments for Multiple Offices: The Act clarifies the rules for Assembly Members holding multiple roles (e.g., also serving in the UK Parliament or European Parliament). If an Assembly member holds another paid office with a higher salary, their Assembly salary is reduced to prevent double-dipping.
• Pension Provisions: Amendments to Section 48 similarly ensure consistency and transparency regarding pension arrangements for Assembly Members, linking pension eligibility to salary levels.
• Enhanced Flexibility: The Act grants the Assembly broader authority to make provisions regarding salaries and allowances via resolutions or legislation, including the establishment of new offices or bodies.

Government Spending

The Act itself doesn't specify exact figures for government spending. The impact on government spending depends on the Assembly's future decisions regarding salaries and allowances for its members. It could lead to increased or decreased spending, depending on the decisions made by the Assembly.

Groups Affected

• Northern Ireland Assembly Members: Their salaries, allowances, and pensions are directly affected by the Act's provisions, offering both potential increases and complexities depending on their specific role.
• Northern Ireland Assembly: The Assembly gains more control over its members' remuneration and the flexibility to structure compensation more effectively.
• UK Government: While the financial impact is dependent on the Assembly's decisions, the UK government retains oversight due to its overall responsibility for Northern Ireland's finances.

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