Politics

Low Pay Commission’s own research found minimum wage hike could cost jobs

Government expected to increase current level to €12.70 per hour, but study claims rate may have already exceeded the value of work being carried out

The rise of 12 per cent, which would affect 164,000 low-paid workers, would be the second-largest hike in the minimum wage to date. Picture: Fergal Phillips

A new study carried out for the Low Pay Commission has warned that further increases in the national minimum wage may cost jobs.

The commission has recommended to government that the current minimum wage of €11.30 go up to €12.70 per hour next January to bring it closer to a living wage.

The government is expected to sign off on that rise, which will affect 164,000 low-paid workers, in September. At 12 per cent, it ...