Major pay increases secured for over 30,000 contract cleaners

SIPTU has welcomed the approval of a new Employment Regulation Order (ERO) for the Contract Cleaning Industry, which the union successfully negotiated to deliver significant pay rises and new allowances for more than 30,000 cleaners across the sector.

SIPTU Organiser Rachel Keane said: “The new ERO, which comes into effect on 17th October 2025, will increase the minimum hourly rate for cleaners from €13.30 to €14.10 per hour. From 1st January 2026, this will rise again to €14.80 per hour.

“In addition to the pay increases, SIPTU has also secured the introduction of a new unsocial hours allowance, which will take effect from 17th October 2025. Under this provision, workers will receive an additional €1.00 per hour for all hours worked between midnight and 6.00am, with a guaranteed minimum of three hours paid at the enhanced rate.”

SIPTU Sector Organiser Ed Kenny said: “This agreement represents a major step forward for thousands of cleaners who play an essential role in keeping workplaces, schools, hospitals, and public spaces safe and hygienic. For too long their work has been undervalued. These increases, secured through tough negotiations at the Joint Labour Committee, will make a real difference to their pay packets and to their families.”

He added: “The introduction of an unsocial hours allowance is particularly important. Cleaners working through the night to keep essential services running will now have that unsocial work recognised and properly compensated.”

The new rates will apply to all workers covered by the ERO, replacing the previous 2024 agreement.