Irish Examiner view: ICTU's poor move

Minimum wage negotiations

ICTU has withdrawn from the Low Pay Commission over a disagreement over a proposed increase in the national minimum wage. Photo: Sam Boal / RollingNews.ie

The decision by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions to withdraw from the Low Pay Commission (LPC) will do little service to the people it purports to represent. It also throws the future of the Government body, set up in 2015, in doubt.

There is merit on both sides. Some of our lowest-paid have been at the Covid-19 coalface, as workers in asylum seeking utilities and nursing homes. It is only right that their contribution should be valued. Similarly, those who work in the hospitality industry deserve a fair return for their efforts.