Joan Collins (Dublin South Central, Independents 4 Change) | Oireachtas source

When the national minimum wage was introduced more than 20 years ago at a rate of €5.58 per hour, it was seen as a step forward in tackling the issue of low pay in the Irish economy. The intention was to set a floor, with workers being able to secure wages above the low basic rate. However, the minimum wage, rather than acting as a floor, has become the norm in certain sectors of the economy, particularly in hospitality and retail. Rather than reducing low pay, it has in fact consolidated low pay which now affects one in four workers and especially affects women. This situation is not unique to the economy here. It is the consequence of an international drive by capitalists to reduce wages, reduce job security and reduce unionisation and workers' rights in the workplace.

I support the Bill but we need to be quite clear that legislation on its own will not solve the problem. It must be seen as a means to an end by a revitalised labour movement. Low pay is often accompanied by precarious work contracts and abusive practices by certain employers, a lack of respect for employees and denial of basic rights, even when they are enshrined in law. Employers not being obliged to negotiate with a union is a denial of the very basic right of workers to engage with their employer, not as individuals but on a collective basis. We also need legislation to allow unions access to their members in the workplace. At present, I am preparing a Bill to make employers give all relevant information to a union where members are having their union dues deducted by an employer. Some employers are refusing information as part of a union-busting strategy.

While supporting the Bill, I believe much more is needed. Those parties that describe themselves as being on the left should come together with the trade union movement to fight for progressive pro-worker legislation and, just as important, to launch a national campaign to reverse the slide in union membership in the private sector, to fight for what I consider to be a living wage of €15 an hour, and to appeal in particular to young workers, women workers and anyone else affected by low pay, precarious contracts and workplace abuse to join a union, get organised and fight for the respect they deserve as a key force in the economy and delivering public services. The pandemic demonstrated that workers who are often overlooked and undervalued are key to a healthy and successful society.

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