However, his €81,000 salary increase is being waived "for the time being".
Opposition parties had strongly criticised the proposed pay increase in recent months.
In a statement, Robert Watt says he does not think it is appropriate to take such an increase in pay, given the current difficult conditions the country faces.
He also says it was always his intention to waive the increase, until the economy begins to recover and unemployment falls.
Gardaí Warn Of Rising Email And Retail Scams In Wicklow
Gardaí in Wicklow are warning of fake emails accusing people of crimes and in-store scams targeting merchant card receipts. They stress they never contact people by email for investigations and urge residents and retailers to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity.
Minister Meets Arklow Merck Staff as Closure Talks Continue
Minister Peter Burke visited the Merck site in Arklow to meet staff and union representatives amid the planned closure. He confirmed ongoing discussions between management and the union over the next 30 days and announced a task force to explore future options for the site.
Bray Teen’s Bail Revoked Over Breaches Linked to Local Man’s Death
Bray teenager Kyle O’Connor has had his bail revoked after allegedly breaching multiple conditions while awaiting trial over the death of Willie Moorehouse.
Devastating Blow As 100 Jobs To Go As Merck Life Science Plant Operations To Close In Arklow
The facility, which manufactures ingredients for pharmaceutical products, was acquired by Merck in 2015 and currently employs around 100 staff.
178 Wicklow Homeowners Have Successfully Tapped Into The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant
Over €2.75 million in government grants has restored 51 vacant properties across the county as Minister for Housing warns against the scourge of dereliction
10:00pm - 1:00am
Relaxing favourites with Traic O'Braonain
Heavy Rain
High: 13°C | Low: 8°C
Heavy Rain
High: 13°C | Low: 8°C
Light rain
High: 13°C | Low: 7°C
Heavy Rain
High: 12°C | Low: 7°C
Heavy Rain
High: 13°C | Low: 8°C