2
contents Executive Summary
3
1
Introduction
7
2
Background and context
2.1 The problem of precarious work
2.2 The Irish labour market in a comparative context
10
3
Precarious workers in the Irish labour market
12
3.1 Employment and unemployment
12
3.2 Working hours
13
3.3 Working time flexibility in the retail sector
14
3.4 Trade union membership
17
4
Low pay in Ireland
18
4.1 Cuts in working hours
5
Is low pay adequate?
5.1 The recession and poverty
5.2 How much income is enough?
25
6
Conclusion
32
6.1 Summary of research findings
6.2 Recommendations
33
7
Appendix: Survey Methodology
35
7
References
36
8
8
19
23
23
32