PFNI questions if officer pay rise of 7% will apply in Northern Ireland

The Police Federation for Northern Ireland is seeking assurances from the PSNI and the Department of Justice that a 7% pay rise for officers in England and Wales will apply to Northern Ireland.

PFNI Chair, Liam Kelly, says the 7% increase announced by the Government would come as welcome relief, but there is no guarantee that rank-and-file officers will get the increase because of the dire state of PSNI finances.

Mr Kelly is warning a break with pay parity would be a massive blow to members.

Mr Kelly said: “As policing is a devolved matter, the Pay Remuneration Review Body (PRRB) submits a separate report to the Department. The Permanent Secretary must then consider it, aided by a Business Case from the PSNI.

“We believe it is reasonable to expect that this recommendation will mirror the England and Wales award. As we know, the PSNI is having to deal with a deficit of £38 million and if we are to get a 7% award, it’s clear there will have to be significant financial intervention from Government.

“At this stage, our officers are entitled to know if they are getting 7% or if, for the first time, there will be a break with pay parity. Officer pay has been eroded by 20% in real terms and while the 7% would provide some relief in a cost-of-living crisis, it would be well short of what is required to restore pay scales.

“I am writing to seek urgent clarification from the DOJ Permanent Secretary and will also have discussions with the PSNI. We would view any break with England and Wales as retrograde and damaging and will seek assurances that the link will be maintained.”