British government plans to set different minimum wages for each region of the UK have been slammed by SDLP Youth as a move that “stinks of discrimination.”

An SDLP Youth spokesperson said: “These plans are completely immoral. The British government is proposing to boost Londoners’ minimum wage to £6.80, while simultaneously slashing the Northern Ireland minimum wage to £4.80. This is basically sending out the message that Londoners doing the same job as people from here are effectively worth two extra pounds per hour. This is totally unacceptable and stinks of discrimination.

“To cut our already tiny minimum wage levels would effectively result in bonded labour masquerading as fair employment.

“If the government were proposing to pay differing minimum wages to people based on their race, gender or religion, there would be an outcry, so the same anger must be displayed at the idea of paying people differently depending on where they live in the UK.”

He added: “It is already bad enough that the British government discriminates against young workers by paying them a lower minimum wage than older workers- these new plans merely rub salt in the wounds. As far as we are concerned, equal work must mean equal pay- that it the every essence of equality.

“I don’t know where the British government has been for the past few years, but living in Northern Ireland isn’t exactly cheap these days. Young people at the lower end of the payscale already find it practically impossible to get on the housing ladder, but moves to drop the minimum wage below its already ridiculously low level would destroy any small chance for these people to buy a house.”

“SDLP Youth is calling for a universal minimum wage, regardless of age or location. The basis for this should be a £6 minimum wage, reviewed regularly to ensure it rises with inflation.”

The SDLP’s three young Councillors of Armagh City and District Council have expressed their grave concerns about an Internet List which has named a number of local youths. The trio have appealed to all young people to remain calm and to talk about their problems with someone. They have also commended the actions of the Health Trust and the PSNI for contacting young people to provide support and advice.

SDLP Armagh City Councillor Mealla Bratton, who represents the City area, where many young people have been contact said, “I am shocked by this revelation, as will many people from across the City. None of us can imagine what it must be like for a young person to be informed that they are named in such a sinister list. But I appeal to all those being contacted by the Police and Health Trust to remain calm.

“Youth suicide and self harm is becoming an increasingly difficult problem to tackle. Too many local families have had to deal with the untimely loss of their loved ones through suicide and none of us want to see that to happen to any other family or community.

“Any young person who is concerned or who may want to talk through their problems should seek help without delay – whether that is through the Samaritans, school or family member.

“Whoever is responsible for this list should really be ashamed of themselves. Young people are under enough pressure without having to deal with this type of trauma. I would urge anyone who may be able to assist police in this investigation to come forward immediately to put an end to this torment for so many local youths.”

Councillor Sharon Haughey, who is a member of the Southern Health Council has also expressed her despair at a list published on the Internet naming local youths.

Cllr Haughey said, “Over recent weeks, people in the Cusher ward have had to deal firsthand with the tragedy and heartbreak of youth suicide, as three young men took their own lives in Laurelvale. At that time, there was much speculation about this so-called ‘internet list’.

“It is extremely worrying that we now have confirmation of this list and the fact that it details the names of a number of local youths. I am completely shocked and sickened that someone would create such a nasty thing.

“I welcome the actions of the local PSNI and the Southern Health and Social Care Trust in visiting young people who are named and providing them with the necessary support.

“No young person should have to deal with such an ordeal, and unfortunately this shows us all how evil people can use new technology to prey on young people.

“I plea with all those who have been informed of this list to stay strong and not to worry. No-one ever has to suffer in silence, there are many different types of support services available for those feeling vulnerable. And most of all, family members and friends can be there in times of needs. Young people should not allow any problem to fester in silence.

“I urge anyone who may know anything about this list to come forward to the authorities immediately. We need to put an end to this type of bullying.”

Keady Councillor Thomas O’Hanlon said, “I understand that Police and Social Workers have visited the a number of young people in recent days in Armagh following information which was discovered on a web site, and included the names of some young people who tragically died recently.”

“Whilst there is nothing specific relating to suicide, it is important that the information is followed up on immediately. We have sadly witnessed an increase in youth suicides and self harming in recent months in this area.”

“I would commend Social Services and Police on their swift action. I would appeal to those on this list or anyone feeling vulnerable to seek help, speak to someone and don’t feel like you have to remain alone.”

“Our young people are undoubtedly this community’s greatest asset, they are the future and offer so much the future of this country and I would reiterate the view that it is the responsibility of us all in society to try to keep our young people safe.”