The Hard Shoulder Should apprentices be paid the national minimum wage?
Nov 21, 2025
Brian Nolan, Assistant General Secretary of Connect Trade Unions, champions the cause for apprentices to earn at least the national minimum wage. He argues that apprentices are vital contributors to the workforce, facing significant financial strain and heavy responsibilities, yet underpaid. Nolan also counters employer concerns about wage increases and highlights how inadequate pay discourages new candidates. Aaron, an electrical apprentice, shares how low wages impact his life and deter peers from pursuing similar paths. The conversation reveals the urgent need for fair compensation in apprenticeship programs.
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Struggling Between College And Work
- Aaron describes juggling college in Cork and working in Dublin while earning below minimum wage.
- He lists rent, travel, food, petrol and tools as costs that often force apprentices into second jobs.
Apprentices Deliver Real Productive Work
- Brian Nolan argues apprentices perform productive work for at least 80% of their training and are valuable to employers.
- He says comparing apprentices to entry-level workers on the national minimum wage is reasonable and fair.
Remove The Legal Exemption
- Brian advises policymakers to remove the legal exemption that keeps apprentices outside the national minimum wage.
- He warns employers exploit the exemption and says paying fair wages is an investment in future skilled staff.