The Minister of State for Employment, Small Business and Retail, Alan Dillon, has confirmed that he intends to sign a new Employment Regulation Order for the Contract Cleaning Industry.
Effective 17th October 2025, a revision to 2024 ERO for the sector SI No 255 of 2024 will come into effect and sets out revised minimum pay and allowances for over 30,000 workers in the industry.
Under the new terms, the minimum hourly rate for adult contract cleaning workers will rise to €14.10 per hour with a further increase will take effect on 1 January 2026, raising the hourly minimum to €14.80.
The ERO also introduces a new unsocial hours premium. From 17 October 2025, cleaners working between midnight and 6:00 a.m. must receive an additional €1.00 per hour. This allowance applies for a minimum of three hours.
For employers, the ERO creates both obligations and challenges. Payroll systems must be updated to reflect the new rates, and companies will need to budget for the January 2026 rise.
Legally, the new pay framework is set out in SI No. 430 of 2025, ensuring compliance is enforceable.
Any breaches of an Employment Regulation Order may be referred to the Workplace Relations Commission for appropriate action.
For further information or support on this or any HR matter, ISME Members can contact the HR Advice Line via HR@ISME.ie or 01 6622755.
