The Joint Labour Committee for the childcare sector, representing both employers and trade unions, has proposed a 10% increase to the minimum rates of pay for early years educators and school-age childcare practitioners. The increase would raise the current minimum hourly rate from €13.65 to €15.
The Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, has welcomed the pay proposals. She said that "if these proposals are implemented through updated employment regulation orders, they will bring much-needed improvements in pay for these dedicated professionals, enhancing the quality of care and education provided to children across Ireland".
If implemented, the increase would affect up to 35,000 childcare workers across Ireland.
Advice for employers
For employers in the childcare industry, it is important to be aware of these proposals as they happen, and the impact they may have on your business if implemented. Employers should:
- Monitor updates about the proposed increase and stay tuned for any timelines that may arise.
- Review current wage structures and start forecasting the possible effects of the increase on payroll.
- Communicate clearly with staff throughout the process
Upcoming Sectoral Employment Order in the construction sector
Similarly, on 1 August 2025, a new Sectoral Employment Order (SEO) will be introduced for the construction industry. This means that there will be increases to the minimum hourly rates of pay for construction workers, as well as enhanced minimum pension contributions and sick pay entitlements.
A Sectoral Employment Order is a legislative change that introduces new rates of pay or working conditions for employees in a specific sector. This SEO will impact approximately 46,600 construction workers in Ireland.