Introduction
Every worker deserves fair pay for their time, skill, and effort. Yet, a recent Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) case revealed how a Dublin beauty salon underpaid a staff member and withheld her tips, leaving her earning little more than €5 an hour.
The salon, Good Place Beauty Ltd on South William Street, has now been ordered to pay the employee more than €11,000 in compensation. This ruling highlights the importance of knowing your rights under the Payment of Wages Act 1991 and the Terms of Employment (Information) Act 1994.
What Happened in This Case?
The worker, Joselyn Moreira, originally from Chile, took the job in November 2024 after being promised €18 an hour. However, her payslips showed much lower figures. Based on her hours, she earned just €5.06 an hour in November 2024.
In addition:
- She worked long weeks, including late evenings and even Christmas Day.
- She did not receive thousands of euro in tips left by customers.
- She was encouraged not to sign a contract “to pay less tax.”
The WRC adjudication officer found her evidence credible and ruled the salon had made “illegal deductions.” Ms Moreira was awarded €11,012 in compensation.
Why This Ruling Matters
This decision sends a clear message to all employers:
- Fair pay is not optional – it is a legal requirement.
- Tips belong to workers – withholding them is unlawful.
- Contracts protect employees – avoiding contracts exposes employers to penalties.
For employees, this ruling is a reminder that if something feels wrong with your pay or contract, you have the right to challenge it.
What to Do if You’re Underpaid
If you think your employer is underpaying you or withholding wages:
- Keep your payslips and records of hours worked.
- Ask questions in writing about pay or deductions.
- Seek advice early from a legal adviser or your union.
- Know your rights – the WRC can hear complaints under the Payment of Wages Act.
Our Perspective at Employment Matters
At Employment Matters, we see cases like this too often. Workers, especially those in customer-facing jobs, can feel pressured to accept unfair pay. But Irish employment law is clear: employees must receive fair pay for their work, including tips.
We stand with workers like Ms Moreira, who had the courage to speak up and secure the pay she was owed.
If you believe your wages or tips have been unfairly withheld, you do not have to face it alone.
👉 Contact Employment Matters today for confidential advice about your rights under Irish employment law.
