Vol. 486 No. 1
181 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the Government's policy on introducing a minimum wage; the process necessary for its introduction; if legislation is necessary in this regard; and the approximate timetable for its introduction. [1718/98]
196 Mr. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment how soon the Houses of the Oireachtas will be presented with the report of the minimum wage commission; and the steps, if any, she is taking to introduce necessary legislation. [2200/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 181 and 196 together.
The programme for Government includes, as a key priority, the introduction of a national minimum hourly wage. To give effect to that commitment, I have established a national minimum wage commission to advise on the best way to implement the commiment, having regard to the level and extent of low pay in the economy.
During December I received a progress report from the chairperson of the commission, Ms Evelyn Owens, which details the work and activities of the commission to that date. I am informed that the commission hopes to submit a final report during March, 1998.
The Government will decide how best to implement its commitment to a national minimum hourly wage in the light of the commission's report. Decisions concerning the publication of the report of the commission and any legislative requirements will be taken at the appropriate time.
