Overview
NCHD salaries in Ireland are set by HSE Circular (pay scale agreement). The Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) negotiates pay on behalf of NCHDs.
NCHD Salary Scales (approximate 2024)
| Grade | Basic Salary (pa) | With Allowances |
|---|---|---|
| Intern | €38,956 | €54,000–€60,000+ |
| SHO | €50,474 | €65,000–€75,000+ |
| Registrar | €63,048–€73,381 | €80,000–€95,000+ |
| SpR | €73,381–€89,592 | €90,000–€110,000+ |
Allowances include: on-call, overtime (NCHD Agreement), unsocial hours and special duty payments. Actual take-home pay varies significantly by post and hours worked.
Locum Work in Ireland
- Locum work through the HSE National Locum Pool or external agencies
- Typical hourly rates: €50–€90/hour (SHO), €80–€130/hour (Registrar)
- Locum income: self-employed for tax purposes; register with Revenue
- Indemnity: ensure Medical Protection Society (MPS) or equivalent covers locum work in Ireland
Irish Tax Basics
- Standard Rate (20%): up to €40,000 (single) / €49,000 (married one income)
- Higher Rate (40%): above standard rate band
- USC (Universal Social Charge): 0.5%–8% tiered by income
- PRSI: 4.1% employee contribution (2024)
- Tax credits: Personal (€1,875), Employee (€1,875) — reduce tax payable
Pension — Public Sector
- Most HSE employees are enrolled in the Public Service Pension Scheme or Single Public Service Pension Scheme (post-2013)
- Employee contributions: approximately 3% of pay + 3% of pensionable remuneration
- Defined benefit scheme — valuable long-term security
- Consider an AVC (Additional Voluntary Contribution) for additional tax-efficient savings