If you’re working in construction, there are clear, dated pay increases already set down for 2026 through the legally binding Sectoral Employment Orders (SEOs) that set the “union rate” across the industry.
Construction (SEO – legally enforceable floor)
Under the Construction Sector SEO (S.I. 620/2024), minimum hourly rates rise again from 1st August 2026: Craftsperson to €23.74, Category A to €23.03, Category B to €21.37, and the New Entrant Operative rate to €17.28.
SIPTU Construction Sector Organiser, Fran McDonnell, says the SEO is vital, but members must also defend their collective agreements where they exist: “Our collective agreements continue to provide terms and conditions beyond those covered by the SEO. Such agreements are only achieved through union strength, and it is key that every SIPTU member seeks to encourage others within their employments to join the Union so we can protect the quality of jobs into the future.”
He added: “A priority issue for negotiations with employers on new national agreements will be the issue of apprentices’ pay. These talks are scheduled to commence in the spring of 2026.
At them, SIPTU representatives will be making clear that the ending of poverty wages for apprentices is a red-line issue for our union and must be addressed.”