SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan has signed a parliamentary motion at Westminster condemning the recent epidemic of zero-hours contracts, and calling for the national minimum wage to apply to all workers over 16 years of age.
SDLP MP Mark Durkan.
Mr Durkan told Derry Daily “I am concerned by the growing prevalence of zero-hours contracts and low pay for workers – not least younger ones here in Derry and throughout the North.
“I also regret that the current national minimum wage is set at just £5.31 for 18 to 20 year olds, £3.79 for 16 to 17 year olds and just £2.73 for apprentices.
“Workers under 21 years old are disproportionately employed in highly casualised sectors where zero-hours contracts are frequently used – which prevents many young workers from being able to budget from week-to-week or save for their futures.
“I am therefore calling for legislation to ensure that no worker has to work on a zero-hours contract.
“I am also calling for the adult rate for the national minimum wage to apply to every worker of 16 years of age and above – except on the basis of proven inability to pay, following full disclosure of company profits and executive pay levels.
