New SEO approved for workers in construction industry

Neale Richmond, Minister of State for Employment Affairs and Retail Business has accepted the Labour Court recommendation for new minimum pay and pension contribution rates for workers in the construction sector.

In accordance with the requirements of the Industrial Relations (Amendment) Act 2015, Minister Richmond has referred the matter before the Houses of the Oireachtas to seek a resolution approving the making of an Order, giving effect to the recommendations.

Outlining some of the detail, the Minister said he was pleased to approve this Sectoral Employment Order (SEO), which will commence on 18th September this year.

“This SEO will provide for increased rates of hourly pay for workers in the construction sector, as well as amendments to the minimum pension contributions. Further increases in pay will commence from 5th August, 2023.

“From September 18th, craftspeople will see their hourly rate increase to €21.49; those workers in category A, including those with an advanced Scaffolding Card and who have four years’ experience – bank operatives, steel fixers, crane drivers and heavy machine operators will receive €20.86 per hour; and workers in Category B, skilled general operatives with more than two years’ experience, will receive €19.35 per hour.

“This SEO will make a real difference to workers in the sector not only by increasing rates of pay but also by providing certainty for workers. The inclusion of a legally binding disputes procedure will also ensure that any disputes that arise in the sector can be addressed effectively and fairly.

“Apprentices will also benefit from this SEO, with an increase in their legal minimum pay, including time they spend in education”, he stated.