Vol. 488 No. 2
99 Mr. P. Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when the report of the statutory minimum wage commission will be published; the consensus, if any, there is on the level of the minimum wage; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5991/98]
To give effect to the commitment in the programme for Government to introduce a national minimum hourly wage. I have established a National Minimum Wage Commisssion to advise on the best way forward having regard to the level and extent of low pay in the economy. I am informed that the commission hopes to submit a final report during March 1998.
I have made it clear from the outset that the right balance must be struck so that the outcome is a victory for the rights of workers and for jobs. The commission has a role in recommending how that balance can best be struck, paying particular regard to the views of the social partners with whom they have been consulting.
