We note the address by An Tánaiste Leo Varadkar TD as noted on the Government website this morning when addressing a meeting of IIEI members. Mr Varadkar has shown himself to have little concern for the increasing costs his department is prepared to levy on employers within the State. The following is an extract from his address. Perhaps now is the time for members to engage with Fine Gael TDs and Senators and voice your concerns on this significant change in policy. Members can find the contact details of their local TDs and Senators here.
It’s a cliché to say there is a global fight for talent, but recent events mean that fight is only going to intensify.
I am sure that improving pay, terms and conditions for workers is part of the answer. It’s the only way we will attract and retain the staff we need.
I know small businesses have been through a lot in the past two years and new policies like sick pay, remote working, more family leave, a living wage and auto-enrolment just feels like the government loading on more costs.
We will help small businesses and employers to manage these changes by phasing them in over time.