Expenses go on view

Published: 10th December, 2010

• JUSTINE Gordon-Smith characterises Homes for Islington’s board as one “resistant to transparency” on the payment of allowances for its resident and independent board members for duties carried out on behalf of residents (What are they hiding? November 19). 

Nothing could be further from the truth, given that HfI, unlike many other similar public bodies, has already published board director expenses on its website from January 1, 2009, onwards and will continue to do so quarterly. Ms Gordon-Smith has also already been provided with a breakdown of board expenses between 2004 and 2008.

HfI board was paid out-of-pocket expenses between 2004 and 2007 for duties in line with most voluntary positions on public bodies. In 2007, an annualised allowances scheme was introduced, paying board directors average out-of-pocket expenses, which they paid tax and NI contributions on. The scheme was more cost effective in terms of administration than an out-of-pocket scheme.

In August 2010, the board agreed the introduction of special responsibility allowances following the framework of those paid to Islington councillors in positions of accountability as chairs. These allowances were introduced only in accordance with job descriptions and revised competency requirements, providing a proper performance management framework and ensuring board members are accountable for the allowances paid.

The allowances paid to the chair, vice-chair and committee chairs all remain subject to tax and NI contributions.
Theresa Coyle
Chair, Homes for Islington board