Wexford retailers call for PRSI cuts to protect jobs amid rising costs

Wexford retailers and staff have joined a national campaign calling for a reduction in employers’ PRSI in the upcoming Budget.

Retail Excellence Ireland launched its ‘Cut PRSI, Keep Jobs’ campaign this week, with retailers gathering in Wexford town and locations around the country.

The organisation says the retail sector is facing growing cost pressures, with 10,800 fewer jobs than this time last year. It also says 59% of retailers surveyed have reduced staff numbers or hours in the past year.

REI is calling for a lower PRSI rate on earnings, zero employer PRSI for workers under 25, and a review of how the Living Wage is calculated.

Employers’ PRSI is due to increase from October 1st, which the organisation says will add further pressure to local businesses.

REI CEO Jean McCabe is urging TDs across the country to support the campaign and is calling on Finance Minister Simon Harris to include the measures in Budget 2027.

She says the proposals could help businesses remain open and protect jobs in communities across Ireland.