Public-sector workers could be in line to gain an average of €800 or more each as part of the Government's reversal of pay cuts, it has been reported.
The Irish Times reports that between €250m and €300m will be allocated to restore the pay levels of nearly 300,000 public-sector workers.
The increase will come in the form of tax cuts and pay rises, and will be largely tilted in favour of lower paid public servants.
Public Expenditure and Reform Minister Brendan Howlin said that nothing has been decided ahead of talks with the unions next week, however
“There’s a very small number of people who are going to be involved in this process,” he said.
“We have to hear what the trade unions bring to the table.
“Obviously, we have sums of money that are affordable in mind. We understand that public servants haven’t had an increase in seven years and in fact, all have had two decreases, some three decreases.
“Even increments … under Haddington Road were delayed substantially.”