The independent remuneration board confirmed a £14,000 pay rise for members of the Stormont Assembly. The board cited the role's complexity and financial viability as key factors in its determination.
Financial sanctions will apply if the executive is not formed after the next assembly election. The sanctions include a 10% reduction in pay after week six, another 10% after week 12, and a further 10% after week 18.
The board's chairperson, Alan Lowry, stated the draft determination remains sound despite public criticism. He noted the board had reflected on the public's frustration with the stop-start nature of government.