25/06/2015

Low Pay Commission 'Next Step' In Fair Pay For Workers - Labour

The Low Pay Commission represents the "next step" in fair pay for workers, Labour's Sean Kenny has said.

Commenting on the the National Minimum Wage Act, Deputy Kenny said that the Low Pay Commission demonstrates the governments commitment to tackling low pay.

"Low pay is not some abstract economic issue. As with other economic issues, for example, the issue of banking debt, the minimum wage is a matter that is the subject of intense debate. Supporters, of which I am one, argue that a minimum wage is necessary to ensure that workers are not forced below the poverty line," Deputy Kenny said.

"Opponents argue that it is an artificial, government imposed wage, which increases unemployment, as some employers cannot afford to pay the agreed rates. I must say that I have never known an opponent of a minimum wage to experience what it is like to work for low pay."

"There is quite a range of issues that will have to be examined before the Commission comes to make its recommendations. These issues include the changes in earnings since the minimum wage was last increased in 2011 and the rate of employment generally. As well as that, the expected impact of a change to the minimum wage on employment, the cost of living and national competitiveness will have to be examined. Changes in income distribution and currency exchange rates will also need to be examined."

(MH)

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