Tue Sep 17 05:26:00 UTC 2024: ## Debate Heats Up Over Sub-Minimum Wages for Young Workers in Ireland

**Dublin, Ireland** – A growing debate is brewing in Ireland surrounding the issue of sub-minimum wages for young workers. While young people can vote at 18 and drive at 17, Central Statistics Office data from 2020 revealed that as many as 10,000 under-20s were paid less than their colleagues solely due to their age, representing roughly one in five young workers.

This practice has sparked concerns among advocates for young workers, who argue that it undermines the principle of “equal pay for equal work” and puts a disproportionate financial strain on those facing the rising cost of living.

Jamie Mac Giolla Bháin, an economics, politics and law student at Dublin City University, highlights the challenges students face, particularly those in full-time third-level education who rely on part-time jobs to cover college expenses. With the average part-time monthly wage at €1,016, covering the average student’s monthly costs of €701 (living at home) or €1,565 (living away from home) becomes an uphill battle, especially if they are paid below minimum wage.

Adding fuel to the fire, the National Youth Council of Ireland points out that Ireland is one of only six EU countries still employing age-based rates for young adult workers, citing that current bands do not provide an adequate income.

However, opposing voices like the Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association (Isme) argue that retaining sub-minimum rates is crucial to help businesses struggling with higher costs. They claim that the practice is not discriminatory, pointing to the fact that just one in every 140 employees earns a sub-minimum youth rate, and this is usually during a probationary period.

Isme further defends sub-minimum rates by citing the European law allowing them as long as they respect non-discrimination and proportionality principles. They also draw a parallel to pay scales in the Civil Service, which reward experience and years of service, which they argue are analogous to age-based pay structures.

The Low Pay Commission, however, has recommended abolishing sub-minimum rates for those aged 18 and 19 by January 1st, 2025, and for under-18s after a two-year feasibility study. This recommendation, which the government is expected to consider, has reignited the debate.

The future of sub-minimum rates in Ireland remains uncertain, with arguments on both sides presenting compelling points. As the cost of living continues to rise, and with growing concerns about the financial burden on young workers, the government will face pressure to make a decision that addresses both the concerns of businesses and the well-being of young people entering the workforce.

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