Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is a combined response to this question and the previous one. We both have to be careful in our language when we are talking about reports or anecdotal evidence versus empirical evidence. We do not want people to go out thinking that this is used across any sector, retail or otherwise, as suggested in terms of lower pay and the way hours are being allocated. There have been some reports of that, but having genuine, empirical evidence with real thorough research is very important in the context of this and the previous question. That is what the Low Pay Commission will undertake to obtain in the coming months. The commission will report back to the Government later this year with a suggestion. It is worth remarking on the fact that the minimum wage is €11.30, whereas it was €7.65 in 2010. There has been movement more generally in this area. As already stated, however, this is something that will be looked at. When it is looked at, the evidence will be taken into account by the Government in determining whatever action is needed.

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