TDs’ pay hike may eclipse tax cuts

A series of budget measures aimed at winning over public support which came into effect yesterday risk being undermined by the fact a €3,600 TDs’ pay hike was also introduced at the same time.

The moves, including USC cuts, minimum wage rises, pay restoration for public servants and improved supports for the self-employed, were introduced on New Year’s Day after being initially announced during last October’s budget.

However, while the changes put forward by Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe will mean average workers will be hundreds of euro better off this year compared to 2017, they still risk being undermined.