Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I think it would be risky in the current economy. The Low Pay Commission has recommended four years, with 2023 being year one. I know the Deputy feels, as many people might, that the increase in the minimum wage of 7.6% is inadequate. I am hearing from many small employers that they are worried about their ability to pay it, particularly at a time of waning consumer confidence and rising energy prices. I must have regard to that. If we do see employment falling off and hours being cut as a consequence of higher wage costs, I cannot ignore it. The most important workers' right is the right to work. I hope we will see employment continue to rise in 2023. That will give me the reassurance that we can increase the national minimum wage at a faster rate. However, we cannot allow ideology to blind us from the facts if employment ends up going in the wrong direction.