Troy welcomes 5% increase for CE workers

Fianna Fáil TD Robert Troy has welcomed an agreement which will see community employment workers across various schemes receive a 5 per cent increase this year.

The pay deal will benefit over 1,600 employees of organisations that manage Community Employment (CE), Tús, Rural Social Scheme (RSS) and Job Initiative (JI).

"While many of these workers weren't subject to FEMPI reductions, they haven't had a pay rise since 2008, an issue Fianna Fáil campaigned on in opposition, and I'm pleased to say that in Government we have ensured that their voice has finally been heard," Deputy Troy said.

"We have delivered on our promise to ensure that the 1,641 staff, who work as supervisors, assistant supervisors and team leaders in the delivery of the CE, Tús, RSS and JI, are recognised for their important work in communities across the country. Under the agreement, these workers will receive an increase of 3% from 1 April 2023, which will be backdated, and a further 2% from 1 November 2023.

"I am acutely aware that Community Employment Scheme workers provide vital services to communities throughout the country. This modest increase is in addition to a new mechanism for engagement on future pay determination.

"Resolving this issue has been a priority for my party for many years and I am pleased that a resolution has finally been arrived at. It's vital that the Government now continue to reform the Community Employment Scheme to ensure that it's an attractive option for participants and staff members."