Irish Water staff set to request pay rise despite utility’s €850m debt

Irish Water workers will seek wage rises of 2.5%-3.5% when a pay freeze ends in December, despite the utility facing serious financial problems after less than half of householders paid their first bills.

Siptu trade union official Adrian Kane confirmed the group will “consider the nature of the claim” in the coming months after weekend reports the salary increase will be sought.

Speaking as fresh concerns emerged over Irish Water’s €850m total debt and potential inability to pass imminent EU financial stability checks, Mr Kane said a seven-year pay freeze linked to a previous deal with parent company Ervia runs out at the end of the year.