Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Deputy. I did not suggest that the minimum wage should be increased or decreased. I pointed out that I am obliged under the relevant Act to consider any recommendation that is made to me by the Labour Court. When the Labour Court is adjudicating on this matter, it is obliged to seek submissions and to take into account issues such as employment, unemployment, inflation and national competitiveness. When it decides on a rate and makes it known to me, as the Minister of State with responsibility for labour affairs of the day, I will have to make a decision within three months on whether to accept, reject or amend it. Statutory provision has been made. I do not think we should override the legislation that was passed by this House. When the Labour Court makes known its findings to me, I will have three months to make known my decision to the public.

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