Salaries Of Government Departments Soar to €284,000 Per Year

Salaries of government departments are set for a significant shake-up with the recent public sector pay deal. The agreement, which benefits over 385,000 public servants, offers varying levels of pay increases depending on the position. 

(Also read Blanchardstown to Kildare Bus Service to Double trips Starting from April 1st.)

Here’s a breakdown of the details:

Top Earners See Major Pay Rise:

Secretaries general, who lead government departments, will see their salaries jump by 9.25% over the deal’s duration, pushing their pay to around €284,000 annually. This surpasses the incoming Taoiseach’s salary, which will remain around €209,000 due to a previous wage-curbing measure.

Teachers and Nurses Get Gradual Increases:

1. By the middle of 2026, primary school teachers will start earning €45,833, while the highest paid would make €84,413. Pay increases are also planned for “visiting teachers” and school principal allowances.

2. Nurses will see their pay rise to around €44,000 by June 2026, with the possibility of further negotiations if the cost of living spikes again.

Gardaí and Other Public Servants Benefit:

1. Gardaí, at the top of their pay scale, can expect a €5,000 raise, and many public servants can earn additional income through overtime, allowances, and premium pay.

2. Other public servants covered by the agreement include physicians, civil servants, military personnel, and local government representatives.

The Public Sector Pay Deal in Detail:

1. The agreement provides a total increase of 10.25% over two and a half years, consisting of a 9.25% base pay rise and an additional 1% for specific groups.

2. The deal was approved by unions representing 385,000 public servants across various sectors.

Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe welcomed the agreement, highlighting its balance between rewarding public service efforts and responsible financial management.

What’s More In Salaries Of Government Departments?

1. The agreement includes provisions for pension increases in line with pay rises.

2. The pay rises will be implemented in stages:

• A one-time payment of €1,125, or 2.25% of the total amount, retroactive to January 1, 2024, is required.
• A 1% pay rise on June 1, 2024.
• On October 1, 2024, there will be a pay increase of 1% or €500, whichever is higher.

This new public sector pay deal offers significant financial gains for civil servants, particularly top officials. While teachers, nurses, and other public servants will see increases, they will be implemented gradually. The agreement aims to address rising living costs while maintaining responsible government spending.