Donegal County Council has reported a surplus of €857,000 in its annual accounts for 2020.
This morning’s adjourned May monthly meeting heard that the local authority was in the black for a number of reasons, including the reduction in councillors expenses due to meetings taking place online.
Grant funding in the sum of €3.55m was provided to council in connection with exceptional expenditure and lost income arising from the Covid-19 pandemic.
Additional income of €0.745m was also realised from Non-Principal Private Residence (NPPR) Charges.
There were further savings of €0.42m under the heading of Travelling & Subsistence Allowances (expenses).
“The transition to online meeting platforms during 2020 made a significant contribution to this saving,” the report stated.
Council coffers were also boosted by massive government grants due to the pandemic which were passed on to local businesses and organisations.
Cathaoirleach Rena Donaghy said the financial report was a ‘hertening’ one given what was a difficult year due to the pandemic.
Cllr Maire Therese Gallagher, however, said it was vital that the council reopen services such as the Motor Tax Office and other face-to-face operations.
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