Vol. 516 No. 5
230 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs his views on whether potential sponsors of the student summer jobs scheme might feel that they are breaking the law by employing students at a rate below the recommended minimum wage; the plans, if any, he has to bring the rate in line with the proposed minimum wage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8611/00]
The students summer jobs scheme will operate this year from 1 June to 30 September during which time approved students will be allowed undertake 200 hours work at £3 per hour, giving a possible total maximum payment of £600. The scheme will be advertised shortly in the national newspapers.
The scheme does not fall within the scope of the national minimum wage legislation and therefore the minimum wage will not apply.
I do not intend to increase the rate of pay under the scheme this year. An increase in the rate of pay might encourage well educated and highly employable students to leave the mainstream labour supply. It would be inadvisable to do this in a tightening labour market situation even for short periods.
