Firmsset ownwages

THE Investment Minister Arlene Foster says multi-national firms operating on multiple sites don’t have to pay workers in Londonderry the same as those in Belfast.

She said it was up to foreign investors to pay workers wages they believe reflect their skills, experience and role.

Arlene Foster says multi-nationals can vary wage rates from site to site and don't have to pay Londonderry workers the same as in other places.

placeholder image — Arlene Foster says multi-nationals can vary wage rates from site to site and don't have to pay Londonderry workers the same as in other places.

She explained: “My Department does not have the authority to dictate the level of pay offered by international investors. Furthermore, it is essential that companies are allowed the scope to invest where they consider they will operate most profitably.

This includes “the market rate for salaries and other operating costs” but “companies will pay the levels that they believe reflect the skills and experience needed to fill a range of roles and functions.”