The Parliament’s Finance Committee has approved a proposal to grant island council members an additional monthly allowance of MVR 5,000.

The proposal was submitted by PNC MP Mohamed Mamdhooh of Funadhoo constituency and seconded by PNC MP Hamad Abdullah of Fuvahmulah North constituency.

Under the proposal, island council presidents’ monthly pay will increase from MVR 25,500 to MVR 30,500, vice-presidents’ pay from MVR 20,000 to MVR 25,000, and members’ pay from MVR 18,000 to MVR 23,000.

The committee’s administration said the allowance would help reduce salary disparities among council officials.

MDP MP Abdul Ghafoor Moosa of Hanimaadhoo constituency opposed the proposal, warning that salary increases would place additional pressure on government finances. He also argued that some island councils receive grants of only MVR 6 million to MVR 7 million annually, leaving limited funds for staff salaries and other needs.

The proposal was approved with the support of the PNC majority on the committee.