Ireland is set to increase the minimum hourly pay for workers in the country’s private security industry after Minister of State Alan Dillon approved a new Employment Regulation Order for the sector.

Under the new order, the minimum hourly rate for adult security workers will rise from €15.41 to €16.15, representing an increase of €0.74 per hour. The new rate is scheduled to take effect on September 28, 2026.

The measure amends the employment regulation order that has governed pay in the security sector since 2024. The Irish government said the change is intended to recognise the contribution of security personnel while providing greater certainty for both employees and employers.

Security workers play an important role across a wide range of industries in Ireland. Their responsibilities extend beyond traditional security duties, with personnel supporting the operation of retail outlets, entertainment venues, transport services, financial institutions and other businesses.

Minister Alan Dillon said the new order represents a positive outcome from negotiations between workers and employers. He also highlighted the role of Ireland’s Joint Labour Committee and the Labour Court in reaching the agreement.

The revised rate will remain above Ireland’s current national minimum wage of €14.15 per hour. The government expects the new sector-specific rate to provide additional income for eligible workers while maintaining an established wage-setting mechanism for the industry.

The decision also reflects the government’s support for collective bargaining and sector-based wage agreements. Officials said constructive engagement between employers and employees helped establish the revised conditions.

The security industry has continued to develop as demand for professional security services has expanded across different parts of the Irish economy. The government said the sector has become increasingly professionalised, with workers taking on significant responsibilities in protecting people, property and businesses.

The new Employment Regulation Order therefore represents both a pay adjustment and an update to the regulatory framework governing employment conditions in the sector.

The announcement was published by Ireland’s Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment on September 7, 2026, making it the latest clearly verified government news release available for this country in the current review.