Unite trade union has called on the Government to increase Employers’ PRSI rate.

The union says it should be raised and brought in line with other European countries to fund a range of pay-related benefits for workers.

In an Economic Comment, published as an addendum to its pre-budget submission, the group proposes the introduction of a new 19.75% Employers’ PRSI rate on salaries topping €100,000. The new rate would fund a pay-related unemployment benefit for people losing their jobs, as well as other employment benefits.

The union says employers in Ireland currently pay PRSI rates of less than 8%, compared to an average of 21% in the EU 15.

The Unite Regional Secretary Jimmy Kelly says "a phased-in increase in Employers’ PRSI could fund a range of pay-related benefits ranging from unemployment and sickness benefit to free healthcare and pay-related state pensions".

Mr Kelly spoke to Newstalk about the call to raise the rate:

Originally published 2:45pm