MLA expenses already top £700,000

Despite Stormont only being 'back in business' for two months, almost £720,000 has already been paid out in expenses to Northern Ireland's MLAs.

Between the first and deputy first minister there is £9,200 difference in expenses claimed and paid first since 8 May.

Ian Paisley has received £9,828 while OFMDFM colleague Martin McGuinness's expenses total £650.

The biggest expenses recipient is SDLP Foyle MLA Mary Bradley (£18,757).

A spokeswoman for Mrs Bradley said her figures were higher because she had recently refurbished her office.

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Four of Northern Ireland's 108 MLAs are still to claim any expenses since the restoration of devolution on 8 May.

A spokeswoman for the Assembly said: "These are expenses claimed and paid in the period since restoration of the Assembly.

"The figures do not relate solely to expenses incurred in that period as they are also likely to include some claims for expenses incurred between 1 April 2007 and 7 May 2007 but paid after restoration."