麻豆社

MLAs are facing a pay cut of almost 拢14,000 if the Assembly doesn't get back to work soon. But the blow will be softened by a two stage reduction in their salaries. Those are among proposals being considered by the Secretary of State James Brokenshire. The plan to cut MLAs' - almost a year after Stormont collapsed - has been drawn up by the former Assembly chief executive Trevor Reaney. Here's what he proposes: cutting the MLA salary from 拢49,500 to 拢35,888, with an immediate cut of 拢7,425, followed by a further reduction of 拢6,187 in three months' time. The plan also includes reducing staff allowances in the future. So, is that fair? Or should MLA pay be stopped altogether? Stephen was joined by commentator Brendan Mulgrew, Alan McQuillan, a former member of the Pay Review Panel that sets MLA pay, SDLP MLA Nichola Mallon.

Also on the programme, DUP's former Education Minister denies claims by gay rights campaigners that he shelved report about experiences of gay and lesbian pupils. Stephen got reaction from John O'Doherty from the Rainbow Project.

And, what's the best and worst gifts you've ever received? Commentators Alex Kane and Heidi McAlpin discuss.