Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 July 2016
744. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the discussions his Department has had with suppliers or service contractors to his Department or to agencies of his Department to ensure that 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 he will make a statement on the matter. [24169/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe living wage is a voluntary concept at this stage and has no legislative basis. It is not a statutory entitlement and for that reason it cannot be imposed on either suppliers or contractors by the Department. Therefore my Department has not had any discussions with suppliers or service contractors in relation to the payment of the living wage to employees.
In relation to State Agencies this issue is an operational matter for themselves.
