Chambers: Up to 54% of firms 'anxious' about minimum wage

Chambers Ireland has said that a majority of companies believe that the minimum wage will restrict job opportunities.

has reported that the majority of business have a positive outlook on recent Government initiatives such as the reduction in VAT for the tourism sector and JobBridge, the National Internship Scheme.

Speaking this morning at the launch of Jobs and Labour Market Watch Ian Talbot, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive said: "The restoration of the National Minimum Wage (NMW) to €8.65 is a cause for concern for some businesses with 54% feeling that it will constrain employment opportunities.

Mr Talbot said such concerns could be avoided if tough measures to enhance Ireland’s attractiveness and improve competitiveness are followed through.

He said: "Business and consumer confidence is very easily unsettled when people do not have certainty."

Chambers Ireland also reported that the majority of business have a positive outlook on recent Government initiatives such as the reduction in VAT for the tourism sector and JobBridge, the National Internship Scheme.

"This report shows that businesses see the VAT reduction on services as something which will help to secure employment and restore stability to the struggling tourism sector. Businesses have also endorsed the National Internship Scheme with 64.1% agreeing that it will help to create future employment opportunities.

"It is clear from this report that businesses are feeling positive about recent Government initiatives designed to boost job creation. The reduction in VAT will have a vital impact on the tourism sector and we encourage businesses to pass on these savings to the consumer.

"However, the Government cannot rest on their laurels; more can and should be done to boost enterprise and employment. An increased focus on facilitation of job creation is imperative if indigenous Irish companies are to grow internationally."