Pay disparities between public service professions and finance have widened, raising questions about social value and fairness. In my view, essential workers such as nurses and teachers should receive higher pay relative to their current levels, even if finance remains lucrative, because remuneration should reflect societal contribution and labour conditions.

The strongest reason is that nurses and teachers generate foundational public benefits that markets undervalue. They sustain health systems, educate future workers, and stabilise communities, often under heavy workloads, emotional strain, and unsocial hours. For example, chronic nurse shortages lead to longer waiting times and poorer outcomes, a cost borne by society. Higher pay would improve retention and quality, producing long-term economic returns.

Admittedly, financial salaries are driven by profit generation and risk, which can justify high rewards in competitive markets. However, these earnings are also amplified by bonuses and bargaining power rather than irreplaceable skills. When pay signals favour short-term financial gains over public services, talent is diverted away from teaching and healthcare, weakening social infrastructure. Rebalancing pay would correct incentives without eliminating market rewards.

Overall, increasing pay for nurses and teachers is justified by their indispensable contribution and demanding working conditions. While finance can remain well paid, a fairer distribution would strengthen essential services, attract capable professionals, and support sustainable social and economic outcomes.