The incoming government has unveiled an ambitious Programme for Government, targeting the creation of 300,000 new jobs by 2030. This goal will be driven by strategic investments, policies supporting enterprise, and a focus on fostering a vibrant, competitive economy.
A key aspect of the plan involves assessing all elements of labor market policy that impact the viability of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The government has committed to recognizing the work of the independent Low Pay Commission to ensure fair wages while maintaining the sustainability of SMEs.
While the programme does not specifically mention Section 39 workers, there is a strong commitment to collaborating with the voluntary sector through industrial relations mechanisms. The government aims to address pay issues affecting disability service providers and the long-term viability of organizations within the sector. This will include measures to attract and retain staff in the disability sector, as well as developing a new workforce plan to address immediate staffing shortages and long-term needs.
On industrial relations, the government has outlined its support for the central role of the Workplace Relations Commission and the Labour Court in safeguarding employment rights. It also pledges to promote flexible working arrangements, ensuring they benefit both workers and employers. As part of its commitment to enhancing collective bargaining, the government plans to publish an action plan in 2025, in line with EU directives. Additionally, the government will focus on promoting a diverse and equal workforce, including individuals from minority and disadvantaged communities. A new code of practice will also be introduced to support the hiring of workers with disabilities.
A significant element of the programme is the introduction of a new working age payment. This payment aims to ensure that individuals receiving jobseekers’ payments see an income increase when they work or take on additional hours. The government highlights that the new scheme will remove inconsistencies in the current jobseeker’s allowance, which has discouraged people from seeking employment. Proposals for the working age payment will be published for consultation with stakeholders before the final design is agreed upon.
In terms of pensions, the government has pledged to maintain the state pension age at 66. It also commits to progressively increasing weekly pension payments and ensuring the sustainability of the Social Insurance Fund through the full implementation of the PRSI Roadmap 2024-2028.
The public sector will also see reform, with the government focusing on evolving public and civil services to meet the needs of modern Ireland. This includes negotiating a new public sector pay deal linked to reform, ensuring continued improvements in public service delivery. The government will review the civil service blended working policy to enhance service delivery and productivity across the public sector.