Students' summer scheme is exploiting our nation's youth

COUNTLESS third level students across Ireland are participating in the students' summer jobs scheme, which runs from June until September, during which students will be allowed to undertake 200 hours of work at just 3.85 per hour, giving a possible total maximum payment of 770. This amounts to exploitation of students on the scheme.

Much to my frustration, this is the third summer in which I have raised the matter, but without a satisfactory response from any quarter. Such inertia within our public policy decision making is wrong; it is a major factor in the growing cynicism people have for the political process and governance of the state. This must change.

I have written to the Minister for Social and Family Affairs requesting an increase in the rate from 3.85 to 5.79 per hour for students who participate in the scheme, to bring it in line with the minimum wage. I