Northern Ireland Assembly Members (MLAs) will receive a salary increase to £67,200 annually from 1 April. The current salary stands at £53,000.

The Independent Remuneration Board confirmed the change after a two-week consultation with MLAs, the Assembly Commission, and the Assembly Members' Pension Trustees. The board announced initial proposals last month.

Alan Lowry, board chairperson, said the board weighed the demands of the MLA role, viability of political careers, and salaries in other UK devolved parliaments. The board found its evidence for the adjustment valid following review.

Lowry noted public correspondence showed overwhelming criticism. He attributed public frustration to repeated disruptions in government operations at Stormont in recent years.

The board added salary reductions if no Executive forms after the next assembly election or if First Minister and deputy First Minister posts become vacant. Salaries drop 10% after six weeks, another 10% after 12 weeks, and a further 10% after 18 weeks, during the six-month formation period.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald called the increase excessive and urged alignment with public sector pay awards. DUP leader Gavin Robinson said politicians should not determine their own pay and supported the independent process.

Alliance leader Naomi Long opposed the rise due to Stormont's challenges in functioning and delivering. UUP leader Jon Burrows recognised public frustration with Stormont's performance but said his party avoids input on pay. SDLP leader Claire Hanna stated pay increases require performance measures.