Press release
Minister Donohoe announces government approval of new Public Service Agreement 2024 - 2026
From Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform
Published on
Last updated on
Minister for Public Expenditure NDP Delivery and Reform, Paschal Donohoe, has today (Tuesday 13 February 2024) obtained government approval of the Public Service Agreement 2024 - 2026.
In welcoming the approval of Government, Minister Donohoe noted that the terms of the proposed Agreement were the outcome of a complex and difficult negotiation process.
The Agreement runs for two and a half years and the total cost amounts to €3.6 billion.
In total, the Agreement provides for increases of 10.25% over a two and a half year period. This is made up of general round increases totalling 9.25%, as well as a provision for a Local Bargaining mechanism equivalent to 1% of the basic pay cost.
A key element of the Agreement is that industrial peace will be maintained and that there will be no additional cost increasing claims, other than those provided for in the Local Bargaining Mechanism.
Public service unions and associations are expected to ballot on the proposals in the coming weeks, the outcome of this ballot should be known by 25 March.
Minister Donohoe said:
“I welcome government approval today for the new Public Service Agreement 2024 to 2026. I believe that the Agreement seeks to achieve a balanced approach to public service pay that rewards the ongoing efforts of public servants, while ensuring the responsible management of public finances.
“I would like to thank the Director General and staff at the Workplace Relations Commission for their assistance in co-ordinating this challenging process.
“Public service transformation remains a key priority for Government. The Agreement will underpin the ongoing transformation of our public services, allowing reform to continue in a collaborative and cooperative way.
“As public servants engage in ballots in the coming weeks on acceptance of these proposals, I hope they will consider all elements in the Agreement, which offers security and reward for their continued commitment to serving the people of Ireland.“
A general round increase in annualised basic salary for all public servants of 2.25% or €1,125, whichever is greater, on 1 January 2024.
A general round increase in annualised basic salary for all public servants of 1% on 1 June 2024.
A general round increase in annualised basic salary for all public servants of 1% or €500, whichever is greater, on 1 October 2024.
A general round increase in annualised basic salary for all public servants of 2% or €1,000, whichever is greater, on 1 March 2025.
A general round increase in annualised basic salary for all public servants of 1% on 1 August 2025.
A general round increase in annualised basic salary for all public servants of 1% or €500, whichever is greater, on 1 February 2026.
A general round increase in annualised basic salary for all public servants of 1% on 1 June 2026.
A local bargaining instalment, equivalent to 1% of the basic pay cost, on 1 September 2025.