public sector pay deal

War of words: Unions decry ‘unacceptable’ pay proposal as government warns of fallout from strikes

The government has proposed a pay rise of more than 8 per cent in just over two years, while those in the lowest income sector would see increases of 12 per cent

Kevin Callinan, Fórsa general secretary: “there is a level of anger right across public service organisations today that this government is out of touch with what public servants do and how they need to be awarded.” Picture: Conor Healy / Picture It Photography

It will be a “real pity” if unions opt for strike action instead of accepting a €2.9 billion pay deal for public servants, Paschal Donohoe, minister for public expenditure, has said.

Donohoe was speaking on the RTÉ News at One programme after public sector talks were suspended late last night, with a €2.9 billion pay proposal from the government deemed “unacceptable” by unions as they prepare to ballot for strike action if a new agreement ...