Michael Healy-Rae
Question:263. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will address a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32381/23]
View answerTuesday, 4 July 2023
Questions (263)
Written answers
The National Minimum Wage seeks to find a balance between a fair and sustainable rate for low paid workers and one that will not have significant negative consequences for employers and competitiveness. As it is legally enforceable, it provides protection for workers.
The Low Pay Commission was established in 2015 through the National Minimum Wage (Low Pay Commission) Act 2015. The Commission is an independent body and has the principal function, once each year, to examine the national minimum hourly rate of pay and to make a recommendation to the Minister regarding the rate, ensuring that all decisions are evidence-based, fair and sustainable, and do not create significant adverse consequences for employment or competitiveness.
The Commission takes many factors into account when considering its recommendations including the prevailing economic climate and results from public consultations.
The Low Pay Commission has made recommendations on the National Minimum Wage since it was established; Government has accepted all of these recommendations and the National Minimum Wage has increased from €8.65 per hour to €11.30 per hour between 2016 and January 2023.
The Government is committed to a fair wage for all workers and will continue to be guided by the recommendations of the Low Pay Commission with regard to any future changes in the minimum wage. The Commission is due to submit its recommendations on the 2024 rate for the National Minimum Wage in July.