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

As I said earlier, the way in which the proposed deal has been designed is to the benefit of those on lower levels of income. I will not reiterate all the points but the Senator touched on the minimum benefit, whereby each time there is an increase of 1%, it will equate to a minimum of €500. That is a significant change. There is also the sectoral bargaining element, from which many low-paid workers will seek to benefit through the process that will be set up if this agreement is passed, and there is the restoration of overtime payment rates and so on under the Haddington Road agreement. We are putting in place a process to address the Haddington Road agreement hours as well, which will be of benefit to many low-paid workers throughout the public service, and we are proposing to reinstate many technical allowances.

I take the Deputy's overall point. Those who have the right to vote on the public service pay deal will consider it in the round. Many of the unions have recommended its adoption, although others have not. People will look at it through their own lens and decide according to what they think is in their best interest and that of their colleagues and the public they serve. We hope it will be passed.