Pay rises for top civil servants unveiled
Around 3,000 high-ranking civil servants are to be handed pay rises of 7.5%, it was confirmed tonight.
The Department of Finance revealed state employees such as hospital consultants, top level gardaí and army officers would see their pay jump back in line with private sector workers.
The Review Body on Higher Remuneration in the Public Sector had called for the increase.
Taoiseach Bertie Ahern had defended proposed pay rises for himself and Government colleagues.
The Taoiseach’s ministerial salary now rises to just over €161,000, bringing his total remuneration, including his TD’s salary, to €248,688.
The Chief Justice will now earn €245,413, the Garda Commissioner €192,823, and the Chief of Staff of the Army €175,294.
The wage increases are due to be implemented on a phased basis, one half from July 1, 2005, and the balance from January 1, 2006.
