Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)

Deputy Doherty previously raised concerns for workers in respect of the minimum wage which proved to be unfounded. To allay his fears again, let me be clear: there is a commitment in the programme for Government to review the JLC structure. A comprehensive report, which was authorised by the previous Government, was conducted by Mr. Duffy and Dr. Walsh and has been published by the Government. It will form the basis for the discussions that will take place between the Department and the social partners and the Minister will have his own views. Whatever emerges from this will revert to the Government and at that stage, it will be appropriate to have a full debate in this House on what is proposed, rather than to have speculative debate on what might or might not be involved.

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