Labour TD disputes Varadkar statement

A Labour TD is disputing claims by the Transport Minister Leo Varadkar that the Government could save €200m by deferring public sector increments.

Mr Varadkar's statement sparked controversy earlier this week and drew angry responses from unions, who say increments are protected under the Croke Park deal.

But Labour TD for Galway East, Colm Keaveney, said the figure is more likely to be as low as €50m when deductions are made.

He has also stressed that lower paid workers are generally the recipients of increments, and it is the issue of high pay in the public service that needs to be addressed.