PSNI anger as pay rise blocked by political void

EVEN a “paltry and insulting” proposed pay rise for officers in Northern Ireland cannot be agreed because of the Stormont impasse, the Police Federation has said.

An award equating to less than 1% once cost of living increases are included was hoped to be in PSNI members’ pay packets by the end of this month.

Federation chairman Mark Lindsay said: “There is frustration and anger here.”

A landmark court judgment rejecting the Arc 21 incinerator planning permission in Co Antrim because it had been unlawfully authorised has left civil servants unable to make major decisions in the absence of ministerial oversight.

Mr Lindsay said: “Officers are struggling financially, police pay has been hit by 18.5% over the last eight years.

“It is a delay in awarding what has been recommended by an independent body.”

He said officers’ pay awards were tied to those in England and Wales.

Members had sought a 3.4% rise. The Home Office decided to award a 2% increase, below the level recommended by independent advisers, Mr Lindsay said.

He said a bonus from a previous year had run out and the actual rise, when compared to the increased cost of living, would be worth less than 1%. Stormont’s Justice Department is yet to implement the deal.

Probationary constables earn £23,124, rising to £38,382 after seven years of service.

The Northern Ireland Transitional Allowance of £3,225 is also payable.