The intention is to save 4.8 million euros on the functioning of parliament during this term of office (which runs until 2024). “These savings will be realized by, among other things, postponing a series of infrastructure works in the parliamentary buildings, limiting the facade works to urgent repairs and savings on public outreach, communication, training and consultancy,” according to a press release from the parliament. .
Last year, parliament already decided (from 2022) to save 5 percent on parliamentary allowances. This saving will be continued for the rest of the legislature, good for a saving of 1.4 million euros.
In addition, the parties also agree to cut more deeply in the allocations and operating allowances for the political groups. The savings on the party grant will be increased from 6 to 10 percent. The savings on the operating allowance will be increased from 6 percent to 8 percent. This results in a saving of 2.5 million euros.
The austerity plan was unanimously approved by the Extended Bureau of parliament on Wednesday. That is the body that coordinates the political functioning of the parliament. The plan is normally presented to the plenary in December.