Latest employment in the Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS) statistics published
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Work, pay and benefits
New official statistics published today present Employment in the Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS) based on staff in post at 1 April 2025.
Key findings:
- Total headcount: The NICS employed 24,521 staff at 1 April 2025, representing an increase of 577 staff compared to the same period last year (23,944 in April 2024).
- Quarterly stability: Staff numbers remained relatively stable throughout the 2024/25 financial year, with minimal change between January 2025 (24,513) and April 2025 (24,521).
- Grade distribution: Executive Officer I and II grades represent the largest staff group with 7,789 employees, whilst Grade 5 and higher positions account for the smallest group with 267 staff members.
- Departmental breakdown: The Department for Communities remains the largest NICS department with 7,865 staff, followed by the Department of Finance (3,503) and Department of Justice (3,446).
About the publication
The full report provides comprehensive employment statistics for the Northern Ireland Civil Service, including detailed breakdowns by department, grade, and employment trends over the financial year. The statistics are based on staff in post data and form part of regular workforce monitoring across the NICS.
Further information
Read the full report: Employment in the Northern Ireland Civil Service