Coalition deny split over cuts to low wage rates

THE Coalition Government has rushed to stamp out any suggestion of a rift between them over plans to scrap premium Sunday and overtime pay rates for low-paid workers.

Enterprise Minister Richard Bruton looked increasingly isolated yesterday after his radical proposals to overhaul special sector wage agreements were played down by Taoiseach Enda Kenny as well as Cabinet colleagues.

Trade unions also claimed the Fine Gael minister’s radical plans — which could affect more than 200,000 workers — went beyond an independent report this week that concluded special hourly rates should remain.