Fine Gael TD Heather Humphreys has welcomed the recent announcement that the government is to reverse the cut to the minimum wage.

Speaking on the matter, Deputy Humphreys said "I welcome the recent confirmation by Minister for Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation Richard Bruton TD that the cut to the minimum wage is to be reversed. The announcement will come as a massive relief to the thousands of workers in lower paid jobs across the country.

“I believe this move is a significant signal of the intentions of the new government, where previously the Fianna Fail/Green administration adopted a policy of attacking the most vulnerable in society, Fine Gael believes that lower paid workers should be protected.

“The top priority of the Government is getting people back to work, however in order to do that people need to feel that working is worthwhile. By restoring the minimum wage we are ensuring that a willingness to work will be rewarded.

“Both Fine Gael and Labour stated in the run up the election that we would make job creation and the protection of lower paid workers a priority. This move by Minister Bruton proves that we are delivering on our commitments. The fact that the EU/IMF contingent has endorsed this measure shows that they agree with the direction the government is taking,” concluded Deputy Humphreys.