Vol. 483 No. 3
88 Mr. Haughey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the plans, if any, she has to deal with the problem of young school-going children holding down part-time jobs at below minimum wage levels; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20496/97]
The Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act, 1996 lays down minimum age limits for employment, sets rest intervals and maximum working hours and generally prohibits the employment of persons under 18 after 10 p.m. The Act prohibits the employment of persons who are under 16 years of age. However, employers may employ 14 and 15 year olds on light work during the school holidays or as part of an approved work experience or educational programme. Those over 15 may be employed part-time during the school term for up to eight hours a week. A person found guilty of an offence under the young persons legislation is liable on summary conviction to a fine of up to £1,500. Continuing contraventions can attract a fine of up to £250 per day.
As the Deputy will be aware, while there is no general statutory minimum wage in this country the Programme for Government contains, as a key priority in promoting an inclusive society, the introduction of a national minimum hourly wage. To give effect to that commitment, I have established a national minimum wage commission.
