Strong unions and gender neutral parental policies critical to closing the gender pay gap

November 3rd marked EU Equal Pay Day. Women in Ireland are, on average, paid 13.9% less per hour than men. The gap is even more stark when comparing annual average earnings- 36.8%.

Part time work and a high share of females in low paid occupations and sectors is part of the cause, but there are other factors at play. I wrote an article in the Irish Examiner today discussing these issues and setting out specific recommendations for closing the gap. Link here.