In a wider economic climate of rising prices, but recognising member state traditions of wage-setting and collective bargaining, the EU directive on adequate minimum wages is set to be a major milestone in European social policy. Under the new rules, national minimum wages would have to enable workers to lead a decent life, taking into account the cost of living and wider pay levels. To facilitate an adequacy assessment of existing statutory minimum wages, EU countries may establish a basket of goods and services at real prices, or set it at 60% of the gross median wage and 50% of the gross average wage. Closing statements by Dennis RADTKE (EPP, DE) and Agnes JONGERIUS (S&D, NL), Rapporteurs, Nicolas SCHMIT, European Commissioner for Jobs.

SCHMIT, Nicolas (LU, EC)

Strasbourg

debate

plenary session

minimum income schemes in the EU (T)

JONGERIUS, Agnes (S&D, NL)

RADTKE, Dennis (EPP, DE)

Adequate minimum wages in the European Union: closing statements by Dennis RADTKE (EPP, DE) and Agnes JONGERIUS (S&D, NL), Rapporteurs

SOUNDBITE (French), Nicolas SCHMIT, European Commissioner for Jobs

SOUNDBITE (Dutch), Agnes JONGERIUS (S&amp;D, NL), -