Migrant Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI) welcomes the announcement by Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, that the minimum wage will increase in 2015. The minimum wage has not risen since 2007 despite the mounting cost of living, such as in transport and rent. Other EU countries such as France, Belgium, and the Netherlands have higher minimum wages, yet their cost of living is considerably lower. MRCI Director, Edel McGinley, said: “Low waged workers, including migrant workers, who live on the minimum wage, are struggling to survive on €8.65 per hour. An increase of just one euro per hour to €9.65 would put €40 per week into the households of thousands of families struggling to make ends meet across Ireland”. The majority of those on minimum wages spend most of their earnings in the local economy. This is good for business and the economy. “Increased consumer spending boosts economic growth, so it makes sense to put more money in peoples’ pockets. As the economy continues to grow, wage increases have occurred within the private sector and among higher income earners. To tackle income inequality, low waged workers including women, young people and migrants also need to benefit from this changing economic environment” concluded Edel McGinley.
MRCI welcome pledge to increase national minimum wage
