Supermarket giant Lidl is to become the first major employer in Ireland to pay the ‘Living Wage’ of 11-euro-50 an hour.
It’s been welcomed by the Employment Minister – who says its a significant milestone for Irish workers.
However, farmers say the move is ‘two faced’ – at a time Lidl is driving prices down for small suppliers.
About 700 Lidl staff – 20 per cent of the supermarket’s workforce – will benefit from the Living Wage of 11-euro-50 an hour.
The rate is 30 per cent higher than the minimum wage of 8-65 – and is independently assessed to give earners a socially acceptable standard of living.
Employment Minister Ged Nash says it’s a significant step.
Tánaiste Joan Burton says she hopes more big companies introduce it in the months ahead.
However, not all of the reaction has been positive.
The Irish Farmers Association has been engage in a long-running dispute with Lidl – which it says has forced many farmers out of business by driving prices down.
IFA President Eddie Downey says it’s unjust and disingenuous.