2019 Pay Adjustments and Circular 10/2019 for Ireland Department of

Overview of the 2019 Consolidated Pay Scales and Circular 10/2019 for the Department of Health in Ireland

The official document issued by the Department of Health on 6 August 2019 provides essential guidance regarding the application of pay adjustments for public health sector employees, effective from 1 September 2019. This circular, designated OF1, consolidates the pay scales and details the specific measures implemented under the Public Service Pay and Pensions Act 2017, aligning salary structures with statutory requirements and sector-specific agreements.

Context and Scope of the Circular

This circular is a comprehensive directive aimed at all public health sector employees whose remuneration is governed by the relevant pay scales. It serves to formalize the pay restoration, increase, and allowances applicable from the specified date, ensuring transparency and consistency across the sector. The circular also addresses arrangements concerning the Additional Superannuation Contribution (ASC), a key component of pension-related benefits for public servants.

Specifically, the circular applies to employees covered under the Public Service Pay and Pensions Act 2017, which includes a broad range of healthcare professionals and administrative staff within the Health Service Executive (HSE) and associated agencies. It ensures that the pay adjustments are in accordance with legal provisions and sector agreements, such as the Public Service Stability Agreement (PSSA) 2018-2020.

Key Provisions and Financial Adjustments

Pay Restoration and Increases

• The circular confirms that from 1 September 2019, all public health sector employees will see their basic salaries adjusted according to the revised pay scales. This includes pay restoration for those who experienced previous reductions and scheduled increases as part of ongoing sector negotiations.
• The pay increase is set at 1.75%, reflecting the sector’s commitments under the PSSA 2018-2020. This percentage is calculated based on the basic salary and is applicable to all eligible employees from the specified date.

Superannuation and Allowances

• The document details the rates and thresholds for the Additional Superannuation Contribution (ASC) for 2019, which impact pension contributions for public servants. The thresholds are segmented into standard, fast, and single scheme groups, with specific rates outlined for each category.
• Fixed allowances remain unchanged, but the circular emphasizes the importance of referencing revised pay rates when calculating allowances and pension entitlements.

Overtime and Premium Payments

Payment for overtime rendered on or after 1 September 2019 must be calculated based on the revised pay scales. The circular underscores the need for accurate reference to updated pay rates to ensure correct remuneration for additional hours worked.

Legal and Administrative References

This circular aligns with statutory provisions under the Public Service Pay and Pensions Act 2017 and the broader framework of the Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020. It also references the legal thresholds for allowances and pension calculations, ensuring that all adjustments are compliant with sector-specific legislation.

For further clarification or queries, employees are advised to contact their HR department or refer to the official publications available on the Department of Health website. The circular’s implementation is monitored by the National HR Unit, with signatures from the Principal Officer, Gerry O’Brien, confirming its authority and scope.

Conclusion

The 2019 Consolidated Pay Scales and Circular 10/2019 represent a significant step in standardizing pay adjustments within Ireland’s public health sector. By clearly defining the application of pay increases, allowances, and pension contributions, the circular aims to promote fairness, transparency, and legal compliance across the sector. Employees and managers are encouraged to review the document carefully to ensure accurate application of the provisions from 1 September 2019 onward.