Increase in minimum wage will benefit low paid workers, says Burke

The proposed increase to the minimum wage of 30 cents, bringing it to €9.55 per hour has been welcomed by Fine Gael TD for Longford and Westmeath, Deputy Peter Burke.

This, he said, and other supports – including an affordable childcare scheme on the way this September - will greatly benefit lower paid workers here in Westmeath.

“Increasing the minimum wage is just one tool in a wider Government programme to help the lower paid and incentivise people into work,” said Deputy Burke, before adding that the affordable childcare scheme will see payments of up to €1,040 per year for children in full time childcare.

“The latest data from the Central Statistics Office shows that show that that Ireland is becoming more equal and that poverty is decreasing,” he said.

“Fine Gael in Government recognises that higher levels of public investment in social and economic infrastructure in Meath West, will improve skills, childcare, and empower our communities.

“These are the building blocks for more inclusive, fairer and sustainable patterns of economic growth in our society,” stated Deputy Burke.

The Fine Gael man went on to state that the latest CSO Household Budget Survey shows that the effects and results of Ireland's ongoing economic recovery are being used to reduce inequality across the country

“The 'Household Budget Survey' found that the gap between the highest and lowest income households narrowed between 2009-2010 and 2015-2016.

“Economic and social progress go hand in hand. Only a strong economy supporting people at work can pay for the services needed to create a fair society.” Deputy Burke said.

An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, said: “The Government welcomes the recommendation from the Low Pay Commission to increase the national minimum wage by 30c to €9.55 per hour. It would work out as a €12 increase in a full 40 hour week.

“This would be a modest increase but it's ahead of the rate of inflation and average increases in earnings. It would be the fourth increase since 2011, and the second under this Government, and a further step towards the Programme for Government commitment for a minimum wage of €10.50.”