The Department of Education and Youth has issued Circular 0005/2026, which provides for the pay increase to be applied to teachers’ salaries with effect from 1 February 2026 under the terms of the Public Service Agreement 2024 -2026. The increase is worth either 1% or €500 annually, whichever is greater on all scale points. Allowances including promoted posts and qualification allowances will also be increased by 1%.
The Department of Education and Youth has confirmed that this pay increase will be reflected in payslips on Thursday, 5th February 2026. As this pay period will cover 22 January to 5 February inclusive, the increase will only apply to five days in the pay period. Salaries paid on 19th February 2026 will reflect the full value of the salary increase on teachers’ fortnightly pay.
The percentage increases will also be applied to hourly and daily rates of pay.
The impact of these increases on salaries is outlined in Circular 0005/2026.
The next general round 1% increase to teachers’ salaries under Public Service Agreement 2024 - 2026 agreement is due to be applied from 1 June 2026.
