asked the Minister for the Public Service if he has any plans for the equalisation of pay within the Civil Service; and if he will explain why different rates of pay for male and female applicants are still mentioned in advertisements for employment in the State services.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Civil Service Pay Equalisation.
39.
I assume the Deputy has in mind equal pay for work of equal value. Equal pay will be introduced on a phased basis for the Civil Service in line with employment generally. The first step in that direction was taken, with effect from 1st June, 1973, under the provisions of the National Agreement, 1972. The pay rates enjoyed from time to time by civil servants and so appropriate to be advertised for Civil Service positions will reflect the progress made towards equal pay. To offer equal rates of pay at this stage would exceed the terms of the National Agreement, 1972, as regards the timing and amount of equal pay awards. The State as employer is party to that agreement.