Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 January 2016
504. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the discussions her Department has had with suppliers or service contractors to her Department or to agencies of her Department to ensure employees of such suppliers and contractors are paid the living wage of €11.50 per hour; the cost of implementing this wage for these employees; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1376/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraStandard procurement terms and conditions for goods and services are prepared by the Chief State Solicitor and published by the Office of Government Procurement. These ensure that public service organisations fully discharge their legal obligations including those under employment law. Acceptance of these conditions is a qualification requirement before vendors can be awarded a contract by my Department. As the Deputy will be aware, the setting of Ireland’s statutory National Minimum Wage is a matter for the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation.
The Living Wage, because it is a voluntary initiative cannot be imposed on suppliers or contractors.
