STUC welcomes ‘Fight for 15’ Minimum Wage victory in New York

July 23rd 2015

STUC welcomes ‘Fight for 15’ Minimum Wage victory in New York

July 23rd 2015

STUC General Secretary, Grahame Smith, said:

“This is a startling and heartening victory for Fast Food workers in the state of New York which follows on from similar gains achieved in Seattle, San Francisco and Los Angeles. A $15 dollar an hour Living Wage will place fast food workers in New York at a significantly higher rate than in the norm in our towns and cities.

“The STUC supported campaign ‘Better than Zero’ and the ‘Hungry for Justice’ campaign have both targeted the food and drink sectors for campaigning activity to pressure pushing for better wages, and end to zero hour contracts and respect in the workplace.

“Though by no means confined to any age group, low pay in this sector is a particular problem for young people. The treatment of young people in George Osborne’s recent budget was a scandal and young workers are becoming increasingly angry. The ‘Better than Zero’ campaign which is supported by the STUC but designed and led by young people is receiving stories every day from young people who face low pay, wage discrimination and disrespect in the workplace and the success of these workers in New York will provide them with tremendous encouragement.”

ENDS

For further details and comment: Dave Moxham, Deputy General Secretary – 0141 337 8100