Irish Dental Association Members Overwhelmingly Accept New Public Service Pay Agreement
Dublin, Ireland – March 29, 2024 – Members of the Irish Dental Association (IDA) working in the HSE and the Cork and Dublin dental schools have voted decisively to accept the proposed public service pay agreement. The result comes after lengthy negotiations at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).
Strong Support for the Agreement
The IDA, which had recommended acceptance of the deal, reported a high turnout of nearly 48% among its members. A significant majority (94.4%) voted in favor of the agreement, with only 5.6% rejecting it.
IDA Chief Executive Welcomes Outcome and Calls for Swift Implementation
Fintan Hourihan, Chief Executive of the IDA, expressed satisfaction with the voting outcome. He commended all members who participated and confirmed the Association's official acceptance communicated to the HSE and dental schools. Mr. Hourihan emphasized the importance of prompt implementation, urging for "early payment of the new higher pay rates, with appropriate retrospection."
Breakdown of the Pay Increases
The new agreement outlines a phased pay rise schedule over the next two and a half years:
- 2024:
- A rise of 2.25% or €1,125 (whichever is higher) effective January 1st, 2024.
- A 1% increase on June 1st, 2024.
- A further increase of 1% or €500 (whichever is higher) on October 1st, 2024.
- 2025:
- A rise of 2% or €1,000 (whichever is higher) on March 1st, 2025.
- A 1% increase on August 1st, 2025.
- The first round of local bargaining, amounting to 1% of payroll cost, will take effect on September 1st, 2025.
- 2026:
- A rise of 1% or €500 (whichever is higher) on February 1st, 2026.
- A final 1% increase on June 1st, 2026.
Looking Ahead
This agreement signifies a positive step for IDA members in the public dental sector. The next focus will likely be ensuring the timely disbursement of the pay rises as outlined in the agreement.
For more information contact The Irish Dental Association.