The Small Firms Association (SFA) has condemned the Low Pay Commission’s recommendation of an increase in the National Minimum Wage.
Linda Barry, SFA Acting Director, commented, "There is no justification for any increase in the National Minimum Wage at this time.
"Small firms, many of which have yet to feel the economic recovery, have been further destabilised by Brexit. On behalf of the small business community, the SFA calls on the Government to reject the increase proposed by the Low Pay Commission."
The SFA says that wage inflation have previously been identified by small firms as the biggest threat to their businesses, with Barry calling the Low Pay Commission’s recommendations “out of touch with the reality that these businesses are facing”.
"Many small companies will give pay rises this year, but the minimum wage must take into account the situation of the most vulnerable businesses," she added.
"Brexit-related exchange rate movements have already left Irish firms 19% less competitive in the British market than they were in December 2015.
"Competitiveness is crucial if small businesses are to maintain and create jobs - the Irish minimum wage is already 6% higher than the UK equivalent and an increase will only make the situation more challenging," Barry concluded.
© 2016 - Checkout Magazine by Jenny Whelan
