Seasonal staff reminded about National Minimum Wage rights

Students and seasonal staff in Northern Ireland working over the Christmas holidays are being reminded by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) not to accept less than the National Minimum Wage (NMW).

By The Newsroom

Published 27th Dec 2013, 09:00 BST

Temporary seasonal workers – such as students working as bar staff, shop assistants or warehouse staff – are usually eligible for NMW. If they are not being paid what they are legally entitled to, they should contact the Pay and Work Rights Helpline.

Michelle Wyer, Assistant Director of National Minimum Wage, HMRC, said: “We want to make sure that students and seasonal staff in Northern Ireland working over the festive season are being paid what they’re entitled to.

“HMRC investigates every complaint made to the Pay and Work Rights Helpline, so whether you’re pulling pints or pulling a sleigh this Christmas, if you’re being short-changed you should get in touch.”

Last year HMRC action resulted in over 26,000 workers across the UK getting a share of £4m in arrears. After investigations, over 700 employers received a penalty.