Senator Elaine Millar has accepted a recommendation to increase the minimum wage by 2.8%, effective April 1. The decision aligns with proposals put forth by a forum that also recommended minimum wage rates for year one and year two trainees remain at £10.50 and £11.75 per hour, respectively, for an additional year.
In addition to the minimum wage adjustment, Millar also agreed to an equivalent increase in the allowances provided to employers for accommodation and meals for employees earning the main minimum wage rate. "The forum's report also reflected on the debate about a youth rate and possible changes to the way in which the formal trainee minimum wage policy is currently set," Millar stated.
She indicated that she would carefully consider the arguments that emerged from the forum's consultation exercise, particularly concerning whether a further consultation on these aspects should take place. This suggests potential future discussions about revising policies related to youth wages and the formal trainee minimum wage structure.