New research highlights scale of low-paid work across Northern Ireland
New research into low-paid employment in Northern Ireland has highlighted concerns around earnings, working hours, job security and wider working conditions.
The study, Working Life on Low Pay in Northern Ireland: Evidence from the Working in Ireland Survey 2025, examines not only wage levels but areas including employment security, training, workplace relationships, autonomy and financial wellbeing.
The Department for the Economy said the findings show that low weekly earnings remain widespread, with working hours playing an important role in determining workers’ overall income.
Some workers face greater risk of low pay
Researchers identified several recurring themes, including that certain groups of employees face a higher risk of low pay.
Low-paid employment was also found to be concentrated in particular sectors and locations.
The research forms part of the wider Working in Ireland Survey 2025, which examined areas including pay, skills, training, wellbeing and employee voice.
Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald said the findings demonstrated that the issue extended beyond hourly wage rates.
She said the security and predictability of working hours, access to employment protections and opportunities for progression were also important factors in people’s working lives.
Good Jobs legislation
The findings have been published as the Economy Minister continues to progress proposals for new employment rights legislation in Northern Ireland.
Archibald said her proposed Good Jobs Employment Rights Bill would seek to strengthen employment protections and promote fairer and more secure work.
Measures outlined by the Department include provisions relating to predictable working hours, worker protections, family-related leave and trade union representation.
The Minister also encouraged employers to consider becoming accredited Living Wage employers.
She said: “Everyone should have the opportunity to access secure, fairly paid and fulfilling work and my proposed legislation will play a key role in supporting low-income families and ensuring fairer working conditions for employees.”
Research examines wider experience of work
The Working in Ireland Survey examined a broad range of employment issues rather than focusing solely on salary.
Researchers considered factors including job quality, contractual security, training, autonomy, workplace relationships and employees’ financial wellbeing.
The Department said its Good Jobs programme is focused on improving workplace standards through areas including pay, contractual security, work-life balance and employee representation.
Further information: Read the Department for the Economy’s research on low-paid work in Northern Ireland