In November 2008, ICTU requested the Labour Court to review the national minimum wage and to make a recommendation concerning its adjustment. The Court subsequently invited submissions on the issue. Various submissions were received, including from IBEC, ICTU and the Department of Finance. The Labour Court also held discussions with these parties.
Under the National Minimum Wage Act, 2000, the Labour Court can seek to establish, in the context of such consultations, whether a general agreement can be reached between the parties. If, however, the Labour Court is satisfied that such a general agreement cannot be reached, it may still make a recommendation. The Labour Court has not made any recommendation to date in relation to the application made under the National Minimum Wage, 2000. It would be inappropriate for me to comment further while the matter is still with the Court.