Enterprise Committee to discuss the National Minimum Wage (Equal Pay for Young Workers Bill 2022) with Department officials

Speaking ahead of the meeting, Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Maurice Quinlivan said: “We look forward to discussing the Private Members Bill on “the National Minimum Wage (Equal Pay for Young Workers) Bill 2022 with Department officials. This bill seeks to abolish the age based sub-minimum rates currently provided for in section 14 and 15 of the National Minimum Wage Act 2000." 

“The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has responsibility for minimum wage policy and for the operation of the National Minimum Wage Act." 

"Currently, legislation allows for workers aged 19 and below to be paid a rate which is lower than the National Minimum Wage. Those aged 19 years can be paid 90% of the prevailing National Minimum Wage. Those aged 18 can be paid 80% of the National Minimum Wage and those aged 17 and below can be paid 70% of the National Minimum Wage." 

"The minimum wage stands at €12.70 per hour, therefore the current sub-minimum wage rate for workers aged 19 is €11.43, for workers aged 18 is €10.16 and for those aged under 18 is €8.89."

“The Department is undertaking an economic impact assessment the Low Pay Commission’s recommendations to abolish sub-minimum youth rates.  It is also considering the requirements of the EU Directive on Adequate Minimum Wages which is due to be transposed into Irish legislation before the end of the year. The Directive aims to ensure that workers across the EU are protected by adequate minimum wages. The Directive does not prohibit the use of sub-minimum rates but requires Member States to ensure the objective justification of these rates." 

“We welcome the opportunity to discuss these and other related matters with the Department officials.” 

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