ISME slams latest rise in public sector jobs and pay

The Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association (ISME) has attacked the Government over the latest increase in public sector employment and pay levels.

Figures released yesterday showed that an extra 5,800 people were employed in the public sector last year, while average pay levels had increased by 6.2%.

IMSE chief executive Mark Fielding said today that public sector employment levels had increased by 15,000 in the past three years, despite government promises to reduce the figure by 5,000.

He also said average public sector wages were now 47% above the average industrial wage.

Mr Fielding said this situation would lead to higher taxes and stealth charges for businesses and those in the SME sector would suffer worst.