Horticulture group calls for lower wage structures and stricter rules

A COMMITTEE representing horticulture industry stakeholders is calling for the abolition of joint labour committee (JLC) wage structures, a statutory retail code of practice and the retention of state grants for the sector.

The Horticulture Action Group has sent a 25-page report calling on Agriculture Minister of State Shane McEntee to bring Irish labour costs in line with those in Britain, where horticulture workers earn 26% less per hour.

Mr McEntee said he will draw the issue of JLC wage setting to the attention of Jobs and Enterprise Minister Richard Bruton. He also said the endorsed the group’s recommendations in relation to creating a more level playing field in the retail sector.