Public sector pay deal officially expires

The current public sector pay deal in Ireland has officially lapsed, leaving public service workers without an agreed framework for pay and conditions moving forward. The agreement, which ran from January 1, 2024, to June 30, 2026, had provided for pay increases totaling up to 10.25% over its duration.

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There is now no agreement, no talks and no agreed basis for talks.

With the expiration of this deal, unions are expressing concern and warning of potential industrial unrest. Fórsa General Secretary Kevin Callinan, a lead union negotiator, stated that there is currently "no basis" for formal negotiations on a new agreement. He described the situation as "not a stable position for public service workers, public services or Government."

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That is not a stable position for public service workers, public services or Government.

Callinan emphasized that public service workers have historically operated within national agreements that offered stability and predictability, a framework that has now ceased to exist. The absence of a clear pathway to a successor agreement means unions must now deliberate on their response in a "structured and democratic way."

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Public service workers have consistently operated within national agreements that provided stability and predictability, but that framework has now lapsed.

The Department of Public Expenditure acknowledged the Government's desire to reach a new agreement promptly. A spokesperson noted that agreements providing a clear pay framework offer reassurance during uncertain times. The department reiterated its willingness to engage with staff representatives, stating that "all matters are open for discussion at this stage" and that "open and exploratory engagement is the only way to meaningful progress."

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The expiry of the agreement without a pathway to a successor means unions must now consider how to respond in a structured and democratic way.