'Don't short change your workers' - Trades Council

Liam Gallagher of the Derry Trades Council was speaking ahead of the introduction of new minimum wage rates set to be introduced from October 1.

Mr Gallagher says more and more employees in the city, especially in the service and retail sectors, are coming forward to report employers abusing the law. "We would take this opportunity to remind employers it is now illegal to use tips to augment the minimum wage.

"We are finding more people coming to us whose minimum wage is being abused but unfortunately most employees are still reluctant to come forward."

He says it was vital anyone who feels they are being short changed by their employer contacts a trade union.

Mr Gallagher says he has been involved in a number of cases recently where employers were using the recession to their advantage.

"I personally have represented people in the last three months in the service sector where employers are using the current economic downturn to undermine the terms and conditions of employment, for example forcing employees to accept reduced hours of employment without consultation, or insisting employees work longer hours without remuneration.

"I would strongly advise any worker who finds themselves in this position to contact their trade union."

From October 1 the minimum wage for employees over 21 rises to 5.93, while workers between the ages of 18 and 20 will be paid 4.92.

The minimum wage for under 18s rises to 3.64, while apprentices in their first year of training must be paid at least 2.50.

Mr Gallagher say he welcomes the rise in minimum wage rates.