SIPTU's regional secretary for the south-west, Mr John McDonnell, has told employers in the tourist industry that cutting the dole for young people, or curtailing third-level education opportunities, will not solve the industry's labour shortage.
He was responding yesterday to a speech by the Jurys Hotel Group chief executive, Mr Peter Malone, who said the industry suffered staff shortages "partly because we have overstressed the third-level qualification end of the education spectrum". He also said no one under 21 should be given dole. Instead, they should be made learn skills that would lead to a job.
In response, Mr McDonnell said: "The £260 average wage quoted by Mr Malone is way above what any young person could get on the dole. The industry must look at the real reasons why young people are not being attracted to hotel and catering work."
The starting wage for many entrants is around £90 a week, and that can be after four years' training. Employers should improve pay, reduce hours and provide training opportunities.