Public sector workers to receive 9% pay increase in 2027 and 10% in 2028

Public sector workers are set to receive a 9 per cent increase in total remuneration in 2027, followed by a 10 per cent across-the-board salary increase in 2028.

The two-year agreement was reached between the government and organised labour following negotiations under the Public Services Joint Standing Negotiating Committee.

The Secretary-General of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), Joshua Ansah, says the 2027 adjustment comprises an 8 per cent increase in base pay, alongside an additional 1 per cent provision to address other conditions of service.

For 2028, the parties have agreed on a 10 per cent increase in base pay.

Mr Ansah explained that the additional 1 per cent provision in 2027 is intended to address existing inequalities in public sector allowances and improve fairness in remuneration.

He said the arrangement will particularly focus on protecting lower-paid and vulnerable workers.

"Beyond the percentage increases, fairness in the allowances remains a central concern. The additional one per cent provision is intended to help address existing distortions and inequalities in conditions of service, with particular attention to protecting lower-paid and vulnerable workers," he said.

He acknowledged that the agreement may not meet every expectation but described it as progress towards protecting workers' purchasing power.

"This agreement may not meet every expectation. It represents progress in our efforts to protect workers' purchasing power," he added.

Mr Ansah also indicated that organised labour and government would continue working together over the two-year period to address existing inequalities in public sector pay administration.

He stressed the need for fairness in the implementation of the agreement, particularly as the country transitions from the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission to an Independent Public Emoluments Commission (IPEC).