There has been an update to the Sectoral Employment Order (Construction Sector) increasing the rates of pay for the categories of workers. The proposed updated Order sets the statutory minimum pay, pension entitlements, sick pay entitlements, and other core terms for craftsmen, construction operatives, and apprentices employed in the construction sector.

The revised terms and conditions for the construction sector are expected to come into effect from 1st August 2025.

In June 2025, the High Court reaffirmed the legality of Sectoral Employment Orders following a comprehensive review. A final ruling on the Construction SEO is scheduled for 31st July 2025.

Proposed Updated Rates of Pay Effective from 1st August 2025:

Category B Worker: €20.71 per hour
Skilled General Operatives who have worked in the sector for more than 2 years.

Category A Worker: €22.32 per hour
Scaffolders (Advanced Card + 4 years’ experience); Banks operatives; Steel Fixers; Crane Drivers; Heavy Machine Operators.

Craftsperson: €23.00 per hour
Bricklayers/Stone Layers; Carpenters and Joiners; Floor Layers; Glaziers; Painters; Plasterers; Stone Cutters; Wood Machinists; Slaters and Tilers.

Apprentice Rates
For the following trades: Bricklayers/Stone Layers; Carpenters and Joiners; Floor Layers; Glaziers; Painters; Plasterers; Stone Cutters; Wood Machinists; Slaters and Tilers.

• Year 1: 33.3% of Craft Rate
• Year 2: 50% of Craft Rate
• Year 3: 75% of Craft Rate
• Year 4: 90% of Craft Rate

Entrant Worker: €17.28 per hour
General Operatives who enter employment for the first time after attaining the age of 18 and for two years after entering employment in the industry. In addition to the above pay rates, the SEO outlines provisions regarding sick pay, pensions, and unsocial hours payments.
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If you have any questions regarding these changes, one of our dedicated HR Advisors would be happy to assist you. The HR Company supports businesses with updates to Irish Employment Law, including SEO compliance.