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

The EU passed that directive in recognition that increases in the minimum wage, as the Taoiseach mentioned, are no substitute for workers' ability to negotiate their own pay and conditions. That means a greater ability for workers to negotiate with their employers through their unions. The Taoiseach said that the minimum wage has been increased, which is welcome. Any increase in income is welcome but I call for a €15 living wage for workers to be able to survive in this economy from the point of view of the cost of living. Food prices will go up again this year by at least another 10%, I think - those are the indications I read the other day. That will have a huge impact on workers. I ask the Taoiseach to bring forward the legislation on which the Minister, Deputy Coveney, is working, as quickly as possible in order that we can all have a look at it and to ensure there is plenty of transparency for Members of this Dáil.

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