Unions representing public sector workers in Clare say a proposed pay agreement will provide some stability over the coming years, but there’s still a body of work to be done.
A deal was reached in the early hours of this morning, with a planned national strike tomorrow now called off.
Talks at the Workplace Relations Commission concluded at around half past three this morning, with agreement reached on a new pay deal.
More than 400,000 public servants will benefit from pay increases totalling 10.75% over two years and nine months, if they vote in favour of the proposal.
As part of the agreement, the threshold at which lower-pay provisions apply will also increase from 50,000 euro to 60,000 euro.
Clare-based paramedic and MidWest representative on the Irish Ambulance Representative Council, Orla Considine, says the deal is a positive step forward.
Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers says the agreement underlines the value of collective bargaining and constructive engagement in resolving complex issues and delivering balanced outcomes for public servants, public services and taxpayers.
Unions will now ballot their members on the proposals, with voting due to conclude in early December.
Former ASTI President and St Joseph’s Kilkee Community College teacher, Geraldine O’Brien, says it’s now up to members to decide whether the deal goes far enough.
You can listen to the full interview here:
