Louis O'Hara (Galway East, Sinn Fein)

International Workers' Day is not only a time to celebrate the strides that have been made in improving workers' conditions and pay; it is also a time to reflect on the areas that need significant improvement. Sub-minimum wage rates, in particular, remain an issue. These rates mean young people under the age of 20 are legally allowed to be paid less than their fellow colleagues for the same work. These rates are exploitative of young workers, and the State should recognise the principle of equal pay for equal work for all age groups. Workers, whatever their age, pay tax, PRSI and the USC at the same rates. There is no reason discrimination should persist. This is the same generation that is particularly exposed to extortionate rents, inflation and education costs. Sinn Féin previously introduced legislation that would abolish this wage inequality, but Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael have opposed it. I therefore call on the Government to reconsider its position on sub-minimum wage rates and put an end to the discrimination. I also call on the Government not to row back on its commitment to introduce a living wage for workers. As Deputy Guirke rightly pointed out, its excuses on this are a smokescreen.

As a representative of a rural constituency, I believe the ability to work remotely has provided an opportunity for people to live in the communities in which they grew up without jeopardising their employment prospects. This ability to work remotely brings its own challenges, such as the right to disconnect and the need for adequate broadband infrastructure in rural areas. To reflect these changing working patterns, the Minister must deliver a code of practice in respect of remote working. Such a code would clearly outline the responsibilities of both employees and employers in respect of working remotely, while also clarifying the right to disconnect. The Government must take steps to ensure this.

I also call on the Government to take the steps needed to improve the resilience of the broadband network. Three months after Storm Éowyn, I am still receiving correspondence from constituents on the lack of broadband access, and this highlights the need to improve our infrastructure, especially if the Government is serious about facilitating remote working.

See this speech in context