Employers and trade unions argue about wage-setting agreements

Employers and trade unions have clashed over whether or not the abolition of wage-setting mechanisms through the courts has led to an increase in the number of workers hired by businesses.

Employers suggested that research revealed 12,000 workers were taken on since the July 2011 High Court ruling that Joint Labour Committee agreements were unconstitutional.

The Local Jobs Alliance said its survey of local entrepreneurs found 60% had employed new staff.