We’re getting paid more than ever before – but our stress levels are soaring

WE’RE earning more than ever before – but our work-stress levels are rising along with the few extra quid in our pay packets, two new surveys have revealed.

According to new figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO), employees in Kilkenny and across the country are earning more money than ever before.

However a separate survey has found that our stress levels are rising fastest out of 10  countries across the EU since the recession.

The average worker’s pay has reached a high point of almost €39,000, as earnings soared by 8pc in the past five years and have peaked at their highest since official records began a decade ago.

Average wages now stand at €745.09 a week – equating to a yearly salary of €38,878.

It also means the average worker is being taxed at the higher rate. However, earlier this month Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has promised to raise the tax band between 2019 and 2024. People can currently earn up to €35,550 before being hit with the higher tax rate.

We may be earning more, but our stress levels are also on the rise. According to the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), workplace stress doubled from 8pc in 2010 to 17pc in 2015.

Employees in the health sector, public administration and manufacturing experience the highest levels of stress, with those in professional jobs and managers are most at risk.

Last year, a survey by Eurofound revealed that Irish people work 90 hours more per year than the EU average. It also found that Irish workers on average get 20 days holidays every year, compared to 25.7 days for workers in 15 EU member states.