Fine Gael Cork East TD, Tom Barry, has said that the new JLC structure, being proposed by the Minister for Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation, Richard Bruton, strikes the right balance between ensuring fairness for employees and allowing businesses to thrive in difficult conditions. Deputy Barry made his comments after the Local Jobs Alliance met with the Fine Gael Internal Jobs Committee, of which he is Chair.

“The newly reformed JLC system will affect 20,000 businesses represented by the Local Jobs Alliance, and the 200,000 workers they employ. The Government is determined to protect these jobs, while easing the pressure on employers under the previous out-of-date structure.

“Under the new system, employers will be given extra breathing space as the burden of compliance and record-keeping will be reduced. We want to create the right climate for businesses to flourish, despite difficult economic conditions.

“The previous system was overly complicated, heavy on red tape and difficult to negotiate. Now, the number of JLCs will be reduced from 15 to 6. A basic adult pay rate, and two higher rates relating to length of service or experience, will replace the plethora of rates of pay under the old structure.

“We must take this opportunity to really reform how businesses operate. I fully support Minister Bruton in is his endeavours to streamline the obligations placed on businesses by the State by reducing red tape and bureaucracy. This will make it easier for domestic businesses to expand and take on more employees.

“Job creation is at the centre of every decision the Government makes. The Action Plan for Jobs sets the ambitious target of creating 100,000 new jobs by 2016. Reform of JLCs will help make this goal a reality.”

ENDS