Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On the two points Deputy Jonathan O'Brien has made, first this does represent a genuine and comprehensive effort from the Government, and myself, to respond to the issue of new entrant pay. I am honouring the commitment I gave in the public service stability agreement. To give an example of what this means, we can look at the teaching profession. The move I am proposing to make with the adjustment of two points will mean that the first point of the teaching scale at which recruitment occurs - as Deputy O'Brien knows it is currently €36,318 - will move to €37,692. That is a significant change in pay level at that point on the pay scale. It seeks to deal with the issues raised by unions in respect of new entrant pay and to recognise the value all public servants contribute, and our front-line public servants in particular.

On the Deputy's second point about the decision made that these changes be spread over a number of years, this is a political decision. It is a political decision I made as Minister to try to ensure I have the ability to meet this need while also meeting all of the other service needs in coming years. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien is aware of those needs.

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