FF backbenchers oppose pay cut U-turn

FINANCE Minister Brian Lenihan will face strong opposition from Fianna Fáil backbenchers tomorrow to measures that will see 600 higher-paid public servants escape the full impact of wage cuts being imposed on their lower-paid colleagues.

The parliamentary party had already planned to confront Mr Lenihan on concerns that 160 deputy and assistant secretaries at Government departments will benefit from a U-turn on the pay cut plans announced in last month’s budget.

But it has emerged that the number being spared the full impact of the pay cut could be up to 600, as it will include health service managers, council executives, senior gardaí and army officers.