The recommendation of the Low Pay Commission for the National Minimum Wage to increase to €9.55 per hour has today been criticised by the Small Firms Association (SFA).

The increase in National Minimum Wage would be the third since January 2016, a 10.4% increase overall. 

According to the Association, 60% of SFA members said they are looking to take on additional staff in the coming year, however, they warn that "constant" increases in the National Minimum Wage creates uncertainty and represents a barrier to job creation. 

The SFA warn that this could pose a particular challenge for young people looking to enter the labour market, as 15-24 year olds make up almost 40% of those on the minimum wage.

Speaking today, SFA Acting Director, Linda Barry said, "Two-thirds of SFA members plan to give pay rises this year, but increases will be based on the performance of the individual worker and the ability of the business to pay. An increase in the minimum wage imposed by Government, on the other hand, would ignore the realities facing many small businesses, especially those operating on low margins, including in rural areas and in sectors exposed to Brexit."

She added, "This increase would be the third since January 2016, a 10.4% increase overall. It would be an additional cost on employers on top of increases in insurance costs and rates bills, and is a serious cause for concern among small businesses." 

Source: www.businessworld.ie