Irish wages 25 per cent lower than other leading EU economies
13 April 2008
A damning analysis of European wage levels has
found that Ireland lies rock bottom of the list of the average
wages paid in the private sector across the ten wealthiest
countries in the European Union.
In a report published today by trade union
Unite in the run up to national pay talks, it emerges that Irish
wage levels are 25 per cent below the average for this peer group
and 11 per cent below average even when the list is extended to the
top 15 EU countries.
“Ministers and business leaders are fond of
telling us we have never had it so good,” said Unite regional
Secretary Jimmy Kelly, speaking in Dublin today, “but they are
misleading the public. Working people know that, and this
report paints the truth in stark colours that cannot be
ignored.“
“Relative to our European peers we are working
in a low wage economy and contrary to the story being spun by
business leaders this has to be addressed if we are to retain any
semblance of being a relevant economic force.”
The report also highlights that every one of
the ten European countries which appear above Ireland in the World
Economic Forum’s Competitiveness Rankings for 2007 has a higher
average private sector wage.
“Irish wages have started from a much lower
base than in Europe and need higher average increases to cling on
their coat tails,” added Kelly.
“Government ministers are certainly aware of
this, but if the finger of blame for Ireland’s poor competitiveness
needs to be pointed at the real issues, it will land on government
policy and management skills and neither politicians nor business
leaders would want to admit to this.”
“The harsh reality is that they have no choice
as we will be pressing for basic wage increases substantially above
inflation, for a flat rate element in the basic wage increase to
get more for those in greatest need and for local bargaining
clauses to enable those in the most profitable sectors to reap the
real reward of their endeavours.”
A copy of ‘The Truth about Irish Wages’ can be downloaded
here.
Jimmy Kelly will be available for interview
between 1400 and 1600 Hrs today Sunday and again on Monday
morning.
To arrange an interview please contact:
Rob Hartnett of Hartnett McClure PR on 086 385
1955
