Being a lawmaker in Albania is considered to be one of the most important forms of engagement in the political realm, which apart from its responsibilities, also brings considerable wealth. But, how much does an MP cost to the state budget?
On the brink of the new legislature coming to life in September, Euronews Albania did some simple calculations on the financial benefits that an MP has.
The net monthly salary for an elected official is 116,539 Albanian Lek (around €950), but monthly benefits exceed that by far.
In the addition to their fixed salary, MPs get subsidies for gas, cellphone use, food, and rent for those that do not own a home in the capital. While those MPs that are part of a parliamentary committee also receive extra.
In total, monthly benefits reach an estimated €2,700.
Furthermore, their annual expenditures can total €32,000 per year.
Cost of subsidies for an MP
Net monthly salary: €950
Gas / Diesel: €330
Cellphone: €139-€163
Food: €221-€613
Participation in parliamentary committees: up to €204
Rent: €286-€573
Total of net monthly benefits: up to €2,643
Total benefits of one MP per year: €31,720
