Average annual earnings increased by 1.1% in 2016, according to recent CSO findings. The overall average earnings rose from €36,519 in 2015 to €36,919 in 2016. The overall average earnings for full time employees was €45,611 in 2016 while the average earnings for part time employees came in at €16,597.
What sectors experienced the largest increases?
The largest percentage increase in average annual earnings was witnessed in the professional, scientific and technical sector where average earnings rose from €41,973 in 2015 to €44,667 in 2016. The Construction and Food Services witnessed an increase in annual earnings of 3.3% in 2016, from €37,103 in 2015 to €38,326 in 2016.
Which sectors pay best?
The Information and Communication sector is by far the best performer in this regard, with average earnings coming in just under €56,000 in 2016. This is followed by the financial and real estate sector with average annual earnings approximately €54,000 in 2016. The third best paid sector in the Irish economy is the Public Administration and Defence sector, which boasted average earnings of €47,330 in 2016.
Apart from the Public Administration sector, which experienced a decrease of average annual earnings of 1.7%, all other sectors have experienced wage increases. This is good news for employees and is indicative of a buoyant economy where the battle for specific skills is pushing up wages because of increased demand from employers.
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