Donegal TD Joe McHugh has welcomed a Low Pay Commission recommendation of an increase to the minimum wage of 30 cents, bringing it to €9.55 per hour.
The Government Chief Whip believes this and other supports will greatly benefit lower paid workers here in Donegal and is a further step towards the Programme for Government commitment of €10.50 per hour
“Increasing the minimum wage is just one tool in a wider Government programme to help the lower paid and incentivise people into work,” said Minister McHugh
“Affordable Childcare is on the way this September, which will see 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.
“Fine Gael in Government recognises that higher levels of public investment in social and economic infrastructure in Donegal will improve skills, childcare, and empower our communities.”
McHugh said all these measures together are the building blocks for a more inclusive, fairer and sustainable patterns of economic growth in our society.
“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,” said McHugh.
The latest increase will work out as a €12 increase in a full 40 hour week.
“This latest increase is modest but it’s ahead of the rate of inflation and average increases in earnings. It would be the fourth increase in the minimum wage 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,” added McHugh.
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