Public sector workers got an increase of 4% in 2022 when inflation was 7.2%. (Some got an additional 1% which was earmarked for local bargaining to sort out local issues but some took it as a straight pay increase).
They got 3.5% in 2023 when annual average inflation was 6.3% .
Thus for many in the public sector real incomes have fallen by 6% in the last two years.
The ESRI predict inflation for 2024 will be 2.9%.
Thus to keep ahead of inflation and to catch up for lost earnings in 2022 and 2023 workers need a minimum of 8.9% to the end of 2024.
They have been offered 8.5% for the next two and a half year, i.e to the middle of 2026.
8.5% for two and a half years is completely inadequate and must be rejected.
Unions must immediately ballot for industrial action to demand
· Pay increase that compensate for lost earnings.
· Above inflation increase in 2024.
· An escalator clause to protect workers from any further increases in inflation.
· No additional productivity without further increases in pay
Updated 17 Jan 2024 in line with CSO figures.
