Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

They are doing phenomenal work, I know that the Deputy and I absolutely agree on that. We are in the middle of balloting on a possible new public service pay deal. I hope it is ratified, that remains to be seen. The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, INMO, and other unions which represent nurses will play their part and conduct the process as they see fit.

I am of the view that this Government's public pay policy leans in favour of those at low- and middle-income levels across the public service. I will make a few brief points to back this up. I mentioned already, and I will not repeat it in detail, the fact that the two general rounds of 1% pay increases have a floor benefit of €500 for every public sector worker. As a result, even somebody on €25,000 will not get €250 but €500 and that is proper order. They will get it twice if the agreement is ratified. There is also a sectoral bargaining component. Inevitably, the way this will work out is that it will be of greater benefit to people on low and middle incomes. We have agreed a process in respect of the Haddington Road hours which, of course, are very relevant for people on low and middle incomes throughout the public service. We are putting real money behind this, with €150 million in 2022. With regard to technical grades, we have the reinstatement of twilight payments and tool allowances-----