Electricians are set to see more than a 10 per cent increase due to a four-year wage deal…
A four-year deal has been agreed between trade union Unite and the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) to increase electricians’ wages.
The deal will see pay increase by 10.25 per cent over a four year period between 2017 and 2020. The new rates will come into effect from January 2017.
The increases will see a boost of two per cent in 2017, 2.5 per cent in 2018, 2.75 per cent in 2019, and three per cent in 2020.
Travel allowance and travelling time is expected to be replaced by the introduction of a new mileage allowance and mileage rate. This has yet to be agreed by the HMRC.
Additionally, holiday allowance will increase to 23 days in 2019 and 24 days in 2020.
ECA chief negotiator Paul McNaughton said: “I’m pleased with the outcome of the negotiations – it’s all the more welcome as it provides certainty at a time of considerable uncertainty in the wider economy.
“Having a four-year settlement gives the ECA, together with Unite, the opportunity to achieve agreement on wider long-term changes which are necessary to modernise the industry.”
Bernard McAulay, Unite National Officer, said: “Our members have voted to accept a four-year wages and conditions settlement that will deliver industrial relations stability in a very difficult economic climate.
“The electrical contracting industry is changing at a pace and now is the time for the parties to address the challenges of tomorrow, ensuring our members are at the forefront of installing the latest hi-tech equipment which is central to delivering the next generation of low carbon buildings in the UK.”