Public sector pay is a top priority says new finance minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA
Finance Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA met with civil service trade unions this morning to discuss pay.
Speaking after the meetings with NIPSA, FDA, Unite and GMB, Minister Archibald said:xa0“Working together with Ministerial colleagues, I want to ensure all our public sector workers receive a pay award reflecting the vital role they play in delivering public services.
“As Minister with responsibility for the civil service, I met this morning with trade unions who represent our 24,000 workers.
“I reinforced my determination to see pay negotiations commence as soon as possible.”
The Minister said: “The amount included for pay in the December financial package only provides funding for one year and falls short of what is required.
“Given the cost of living crisis and household budgets being stretched, it is vital public sector workers do not have to continue to wait for their pay award.
“I will continue to press Treasury for clarity on the specifics of the package offered and a longer-term solution to public sector funding that is not at the expense of the stabilisation of public services and finances.”
