Wage Boost for Hospitality Staff

More than 75,000 hospitality staff will take home higher wages this week following the raising of the minimum wage by 80c to €13.50. The higher rate operates since 1st January, but many qualifying staff have been on a break in the first week of the year.

Several industry organisations, including the RAI and IHF, have argued that raising the rate has contributed to a sharp rise in business costs, but the increase has been welcomed by trade unions.

Interim Assistant General Secretary of the Mandate trade union Jim Fuery said the minimum wage increase will provide a level of decency for low-paid workers.

“Sadly for us, many employers look at this as the ceiling, whereas we look at it as the floor,” he said.

“For these workers, every penny that they get, including these increases, will go back into the economy, and they will be spent in local business, local cafes and stores.”

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the minimum wage, which was introduced in April 2000.

“Back then we heard what we are hearing this year - that a minimum wage will bankrupt the economy and cost jobs and businesses,” said Dr Laura Bambrick, Social Policy Officer, Irish Congress of Trade Unions. “It didn't happen then, and it won't happen now,” she said.