It's 'absolutely crucial' new tipping laws ensure all mandatory service charge payments go directly to staff, according to a union representing hospitality workers.
Unite is concerned provisions for a service charge payment in the Payments and Wages Bill could have a negative impact on workers.
The union says businesses could use this charge to make up workers wages rather then adding it on top of their basic pay.
Unite met with representatives for the Tánaiste earlier this month to express its concern about the lack of clarity.
Hospitality Coordinator with Unite, Julia Marciniak says extra money from tips and service charges are is 'crucial' for workers in a low pay industry:
"It helps them with survival. It's not even like a massive benefit. Will just help workers to meet their everyday expenses. That is the reality of it. We can't expect people to survive on €10.50 per hour".
