The programme for Government talks about tackling low pay and improving the minimum wage but it seems even the currently inadequate minimum wage is being violated by companies through internship schemes. I have written to the Tánaiste and to the Workplace Relations Commission, WRC, about one such scheme in Creedon's Dog Care in Cork, which sees interns expected to work from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. completely free for 60 days doing a mix of dog grooming and office work. They even want some of their interns to pay the company €300 for the experience. The law is clear on this. Work experience placements and internships must pay at least the national minimum wage. Any employer not paying is guilty of a criminal offence and could face up to six months in prison. Is this being enforced or is this the tip of the iceberg in terms of exploitation? Will the Tánaiste intervene and ensure action is taken to ensure interns are paid for the work they are doing? While the Tánaiste is at it, he might scrap JobBridge 2.0.

The minimum wage has increased by 25% in recent years. It has been increased ahead of the rate of inflation and ahead of average earnings growth. We have one of the highest minimum wages in the developed world. If one adjusts it for the cost of living, it is not so high but still well above average for the developed world. That has been positive and has made a real difference in people's lives. We always must balance it with the fact that if one goes too far or too high, people will lose jobs or have their hours cut, and that is not in anyone's interests.

In relation to the particular issue that the Deputy raised, if he wants to pass on the details I will make sure the relevant agencies in my Department are made aware of it and can investigate it.