WAGES in over three quarters of hospitality businesses were propped up by the government during the pandemic. The increase could reflect the fact that higher paid workers remained employed in sectors while lower paid staff were laid off. “The composition of the labour market in Q2 2021 may be very different to previous quarters.”Meanwhile, unemployment fell to 12.4pc last month when those on the pandemic unemployment payment are included. The unemployment rate was 25.6pc for those between 15 and 24 and 10pc for those between 25 and 74. Close to four in ten businesses expect to increase employment as society returns to normal.

Source: Irish Independent September 01, 2021 13:18 UTC