Matt Shanahan (Waterford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Courtney for his reply. As I have mentioned, the commission needs to look at regional analyses in terms of the recommendations it gives to the Government. I have highlighted the disparity in disposable spending between the south east and the Border and midlands, versus the east coast. Unfortunately, a lot of the employers, the heavy-hitting policymakers and those who are able to lobby for policy are located on the east coast. That needs to be examined because a significant number of small businesses, particularly in my region, are going to struggle with the increase and the added cost. I am not saying that the minimum wage should not be increased. I am saying that special supports should have been looked at to support these businesses because they are going to have tremendous difficulty over the next 18 months.