Trade unions are calling on the Government to increase the minimum wage as new figures show that one-in-ten people in Ireland are suffering food poverty.
A document published by Unite and Mandate shows that "in-work poverty" is on the rise.
Donegal, which has the lowest income levels in the country, is worst affected with one-in-nine people reporting food poverty.
Union leaders are seeking immediate aid to organisations providing food assistance to help them to cope with the pre-Christmas demand on their services.
They are also asking the government for an 'Emergency Relief Budget' in the New Year.