Ireland Increases Minimum Pay for Security Workers, UK Faces Challenges in Following Suit
The Republic of Ireland has announced a significant boost to the minimum pay for adult workers in the security industry under a new Employment Regulation Order (ERO). The move, which raises the hourly rate from €14.50 to €15.41, has been hailed as a step toward recognizing the vital role security personnel play in ensuring public safety and supporting key industries.
Minister of State for Employment, Small Business, and Retail, Alan Dillon, confirmed the increase, which will take effect on July 22. “A well-functioning security sector ensures public safety and is essential for the operation of a wide range of other industries and public services, including in retail, entertainment, and banking,” he said.
Dillon also praised the Joint Labour Committee system for facilitating the agreement, emphasizing its importance in fostering good-faith negotiations between workers and employers.
The pay rise reflects the growing professionalization of the security sector in Ireland, which has seen significant growth in recent years. It is expected to provide greater stability for both workers and employers, while also addressing challenges such as talent retention and workforce sustainability.
Why the UK Struggles to Follow Suit
While Ireland’s proactive approach has been widely praised, the UK faces significant hurdles in implementing similar measures. Unlike Ireland, which utilizes the Joint Labour Committee system to negotiate sector-specific agreements, the UK lacks a comparable mechanism for industry-wide wage regulation. This makes it difficult to address disparities in pay and working conditions across sectors.
Additionally, the UK’s broader economic challenges, including inflation and public sector pay disputes, have created a complex environment for wage reforms.
Critics argue that the government’s focus on austerity measures and budget constraints has left little room for targeted interventions like those seen in Ireland.
Trade unions in the UK have called for stronger protections and fairer pay for security workers, highlighting the essential role they play in safeguarding businesses and public spaces. However, without a system akin to Ireland’s ERO framework, progress remains slow and fragmented.
As Ireland sets a benchmark for valuing its security workforce, the UK faces mounting pressure to explore new approaches to wage regulation and worker protections. For now, Ireland’s example serves as a reminder of what can be achieved through collaborative negotiation and a commitment to fairness.
