Financial Adviser Awarded Over €48,000 After Unfair Dismissal
Introduction A recent Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) decision highlights the importance of fair disciplinary procedures for employers in Ireland. Caitriona Nic Aodha, a financial adviser, won over €48,000 after being dismissed without a proper chance to respond to serious bullying allegations. What Happened in This Case? Ms Nic Aodha worked as a financial adviser at […]
Maternity Discrimination Costs Employer Over €12,000: Key Lessons for Irish Businesses
Introduction A recent Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) decision shows just how costly maternity-related discrimination can be for employers in Ireland. Eurotech Renewables Limited, a renewable energy firm based in Monaghan, must now pay €12,480 in compensation to a former employee after the WRC found that she was discriminated against because of her maternity leave. What […]
Employment Law Updates 2025: Key Changes Every Employee in Ireland Should Know
Introduction As 2025 unfolds, several important updates to Irish employment law are coming into effect. Whether you’re an employee navigating your rights or an employer working to stay compliant, staying informed is crucial. This article breaks down the most significant changes — from new pension rules and flexible working rights to gender pay gap reporting […]
Executive Chef Wins €57K in Unfair Redundancy Case Against Avoca Handweavers
Redundancy is never easy—for employees or employers. But when not handled properly, it can lead to claims of unfair dismissal, reputational damage, and costly compensation. That’s exactly what happened in a recent case before the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), where an Executive Chef at Avoca Handweavers Limited successfully challenged his redundancy as unfair. Let’s break […]
Gender Pay Gap Portal Launch – What Employers Need to Know in 2025
A New Era of Pay Transparency: Gender Pay Gap Portal Launching Autumn 2025 From Autumn 2025, a major shift is coming for Irish employers: the launch of a fully searchable Gender Pay Gap Reporting Portal. This new portal marks a significant step forward in promoting transparency and accountability around workplace pay disparities between men and […]
Redundant After Speaking Up: The €20,000 Lesson for Irish Employers
A recent decision by the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) has reaffirmed that raising valid concerns about health and safety should never result in retaliation. The case of Patricia Higgins, who was awarded €20,000 in compensation after being unfairly made redundant, is a powerful reminder of how essential employee protections are in today’s workplace. A Long-Standing […]
Pregnancy Discrimination in the Workplace: A Wake-Up Call for Employers
What Happened? A recent case at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) has brought pregnancy discrimination back into focus. A woman was awarded over €10,000 after being let go from her job shortly after telling her employer she was pregnant. Claudia O’Connor worked as a junior health and safety officer at Bretland Construction Ltd. She joined […]
U.S. Tariffs Threaten 25,000 Irish Jobs: Navigating the Potential Impact
A recent report has highlighted a pressing concern for Ireland’s economy: the potential loss of up to 25,000 jobs due to proposed U.S. tariffs. These tariffs, aimed at various sectors, could significantly affect Ireland’s export-driven industries, leading to broader economic challenges. Understanding the Tariff Implications The proposed tariffs by the U.S. government are part of […]
WRC Awards €143,000 to Migrant Woman Over Workplace Sexual Harassment
In a landmark decision, the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) has awarded €143,268 to Sharanjeet Kaur, a migrant woman who endured persistent sexual harassment and discrimination while working at a takeaway in Skerries, Co Dublin. This case underscores the pressing need for robust workplace protections, especially for vulnerable migrant workers. The Case Details Sharanjeet Kaur, originally […]
WRC Orders Dublin Employer to Pay €12,000 Over Homophobic Harassment Claim
Dublin Employer Fined €12,000 Over Homophobic Harassment: What Employers Must Know A recent Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) decision has highlighted the serious impact of homophobic harassment in the workplace—and the consequences of not taking action. Dean Slattery worked as a driver for Liberties Recycling in the Bluebell Industrial Estate. He resigned in February 2024, following […]
Labour Court Awards €40,000 to Employee Dismissed Without Due Process
A recent Labour Court decision serves as a stark reminder to employers of the importance of following fair procedures when dismissing an employee. The case involved Eurodeck Ltd, a company operating in the industrial decking sector, and a former production manager who was let go in a manner the court described as entirely lacking due […]
Publisher of IrishCentral Ordered to Pay €12,000 for Unfair Dismissal
A recent Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) ruling highlights the importance of fair redundancy processes, as the publisher of IrishCentral.com, Irish Studio Media Publishing Limited, has been ordered to pay €12,000 to a former employee for unfair dismissal. Background of the Case The employee, Sinead Behan, had been with the company since 2003, working in various […]
Unfair Dismissal Case: School Cleaner Wins Compensation Over Dispute
Introduction A recent Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) ruling awarded €5,000 in compensation to a school cleaner dismissed after a dispute over a cleaning bucket. This case highlights the importance of fair dismissal procedures and employee rights. Case Overview Christina Doyle worked as a cleaner at Our Lady of Hope School since November 2021, earning €12 […]
High Court Overturns Labour Court Ruling on Debenhams Redundancy Payments
In a significant decision for employment law in Ireland, the High Court has overturned a Labour Court ruling that previously awarded compensation to a former Debenhams employee in a test case concerning redundancy entitlements. This ruling could have implications for nearly 800 similar cases brought forward by former Debenhams employees following the company’s insolvency and […]
Should Ireland Introduce Enhanced ‘Family Friendly’ Workplace Rights?
Balancing work and family life is a challenge many employees face. While some countries, including Northern Ireland, are making strides in providing greater support for working families, Ireland has yet to introduce similar legislative protections. With increasing calls for family-friendly policies in the workplace, is it time for Ireland to follow suit? Miscarriage Leave – […]
Dublin Company Ordered to Pay €40,000 in Pregnancy Discrimination Case
A recent Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) ruling has once again highlighted the importance of protecting employees from workplace discrimination. Capel Abbey Limited, a Dublin-based property management company, has been ordered to pay €40,000 in compensation after it was found to have unfairly dismissed an employee following her pregnancy announcement. The Case: What Happened? Tamara Vuletic, […]
Employment Law in 2025: Key Changes Employers Need to Know
What’s Ahead for Irish Employment Law in 2025? 2024 was a year of significant change for Irish employment law, with key developments in mandatory retirement, employment status, and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). As we move into 2025, more reforms and legal updates are set to shape the workplace landscape. Employers should be prepared for these changes […]
Employee Privacy in the Workplace: What You Need to Know
A recent case before the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) has brought employee privacy and workplace surveillance into sharp focus. A construction worker was awarded €10,000 after his employer secretly placed a GPS tracking device on his company van, monitoring his movements outside of work hours. This case raises serious concerns about employees’ right to privacy […]
Understanding the New Code of Practice on Determining Employment Status
The Department of Social Protection has introduced a new Code of Practice on Determining Employment Status, providing clarity in the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision in Revenue Commissioners v Karshan (Midlands) Ltd T/A Domino’s Pizza [2023] IESC 24. This decision, which found Domino’s delivery drivers to be employees rather than independent contractors, underscores the […]
Race Discrimination in the Workplace: A Security Guard’s €6,000 Win for Justice
Workplace discrimination is a major issue affecting employees across industries. Recently, the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) awarded €6,000 to a security guard in a compelling race discrimination case. This ruling serves as a reminder of the importance of equality and fairness in every workplace. The Case: Feeding a Fox or Facing Bias? The case revolved […]
Workplace Equality: Why It Matters and How Employment Matters Stands With You
In today’s society, workplace equality is not just a buzzword—it’s a fundamental right. Yet, cases like the recent one reported by the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC) remind us how critical it is to address gender discrimination and harassment in workplaces across Ireland. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of workplace equality, […]
Landmark Win for Employment Matters in Pregnancy Discrimination Case
At Employment Matters, we are proud to highlight a groundbreaking win for employee rights. This case involved our client, Raquel Vieira dos Santos Silva, a pregnant worker who faced severe discrimination. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) awarded her an unprecedented €136,200, recognizing the injustice she endured. The Case: Pregnancy Discrimination at Work Ms. dos Santos […]
Probation Period Pitfall: €8,000 Awarded to Wrongfully Dismissed Worker
The probationary period is often perceived as a trial run for employees, where job performance is closely monitored. However, it’s vital for both employers and employees to understand that probation does not mean a free pass to dismiss staff without due process. A recent decision by the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) has reaffirmed this, awarding […]
Discrimination in the Workplace: WRC Awards €45,000 to Social Care Worker
The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) recently awarded €45,000 to Ann Doherty, a social care worker. The ruling came after St John of God Community Services discriminated against her during the Covid-19 pandemic. This case highlights the importance of fair treatment for employees, especially those with family responsibilities and health concerns. Case Summary: Unfair Treatment During […]
Recent WRC Decision Highlights Strong Protections for Pregnant Employees in Ireland
Case Summary: An Employee v A Restaurant (CA-00041705-002, ADJ-00031747) This recent Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) case underscores Ireland’s commitment to protecting pregnant employees from discrimination. In this case, a waitress claimed she was unfairly dismissed due to her pregnancy, in violation of the Employment Equality Acts. The WRC awarded her compensation, reinforcing the strict prohibitions […]
Your Guide to the Employment Tribunal Hearing Process
Navigating an Employment Tribunal hearing can be daunting, especially if it’s your first experience in a legal setting. At Employment Matters, we’re here to break down the process step-by-step to help you feel prepared and confident every step of the way. What is an Employment Tribunal? An Employment Tribunal is a formal hearing where employment […]
Case Study: Championing Workplace Rights – Pregnancy Discrimination
At Employment Matters, we stand with individuals who face unjust treatment in the workplace. Today, we’re sharing the story of a client who courageously took a stand after experiencing discrimination due to pregnancy. This case serves as a reminder of the rights every employee deserves and the importance of holding employers accountable when those rights […]
Discrimination and Victimisation in the Workplace: A Recent Labour Court Case and What It Means for You
At Employment Matters, we recently represented a General Manager in a significant case of pregnancy-related discrimination and victimisation. This case, which resulted in a €90,000 award, underscores the importance of protecting employees’ rights, particularly during pregnancy and maternity leave. Our firm is dedicated to standing up for individuals who face unfair treatment in the workplace, […]
Teacher Awarded €35,000 in Maternity Leave Discrimination Case: A Closer Look at Workplace Equality
The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) recently awarded €35,000 to an Irish teacher in a maternity leave discrimination case. This significant ruling emphasizes the importance of stronger protections for employees and the need for equal treatment for working mothers in Ireland. The Case of Sarah Adam: Maternity Leave and Job LossSarah Adam, an art teacher employed […]
Victimisation
The Acts clearly state that it is unlawful for an employer to penalise an employee for acting on the enforcement of the Acts and/or the Equal Status Act 2000 – 2004. It states that victimisation occurs where the dismissal or other adverse treatment of an employee is a reaction by the employer to a complaint […]
Do I have to go to Court, and will I have to Speak?
Employment cases are generally dealt with outside of the Court system, so It is very unlikely that you’ll ever have to go to Court. You may, however, have to attend a hearing at some point. If the advice is that your employer has breached your rights in employment law, the next step is usually to […]
What Can I Claim For?
If your employer dismissed you, mistreated you, passed you over for promotion or you lost your job because of your pregnancy or some other protected ground or because you complained about how you were being treated, you could be entitled to redress. If you have been the victim of unfair treatment, discrimination, bullying or harassment […]
Can You Get in trouble for Making a Claim, And What About Costs?
Legally, the answer is an emphatic NO! Your employer cannot discriminate against you, penalise or victimise you simply because you are bringing a claim against them for something that happened at work. If you have already left or have been dismissed, there is likewise very little that they can do. Your employer (or former employer) may […]
Do I need a Solicitor?
The simple answer is No. You don’t need a solicitor to pursue a claim in the WRC. That’s part of the reason the WRC was established. The WRC was set up as a forum to facilitate individual claimants by allowing them to take a claim against an employer without the complication or cost of employing a […]
What if I don’t have an Employment Contract?
That doesn’t matter. The law assumes that there is a basic contract and that many fundamental employment rights and protections are deemed to protect you even if there’s no written contract in place. Therefore even without a contract, you still have rights as an employee, and you may be entitled to compensation if your employer […]
How Much Is My Claim Worth?
Well, how long is a piece of string??!! This is very difficult, if not impossible, to answer at the early stages of your case, and you really should be getting worried if someone tells you otherwise. Awards in these cases are based on a number of factors, principally, how much you were earning in your […]
Redundancy And Unfair Selection For Redundancy
It is important in considering a redundancy situation, and in particular, where one employee is to be selected for redundancy out of a larger group of employees, that a fair procedure is followed in how that individual is selected. Our Clients VF and AD were working for a scaffolding company. They were both long-standing employees […]
Direct Discrimination
Prejudice, Discrimination, and less favourable treatment always reflect on the person judging and not the person being judged. Everyone should be treated equally. So that’s what the great legal minds say… Make Sense?…not really! In a nutshell, to establish direct discrimination, it is necessary to prove that, but for the fact that the claimant falls within one […]
Fixed and Part Time Contracts
The Protection of Fixed term and part-time workers has been regulated by statute for some time now, however, the laws are complex and unwieldy. We are seeing more and more of these claims, particularly in the Public Sector. There is a place for Fixed term contracts, however, as a fixed-term worker, you are entitled to […]
Indirect Discrimination
“Everything I did was wrong. He started asking me to keep records of things I had never had to do before. He was being so unreasonable that I asked him to give me an example of what he wanted me to do, but he refused. I realise now he was just trying to push me […]
Health & Safety at Work
Have you been penalised by your employer because you were a whistleblower about Health and Safety at work? Most employers take their Health and Safety responsibilities seriously and act appropriately and conscientiously when an issue concerns health and safety are raised. Others, maybe not so much. Our Client MOR worked for one of the World’s […]
Understanding the 9 Grounds of Discrimination in Ireland9 Grounds of DiscriminationUnderstanding the 9 Grounds of Discrimination in Ireland
Discrimination is a pervasive issue in societies worldwide, and Ireland is no exception. The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC) defines discrimination as “treating someone less favourably than another person in a similar situation because of a personal characteristic.” The characteristics listed in the Irish Constitution are called the 9 Grounds of Discrimination. Discrimination […]
Maternity Discrimination in Ireland
Maternity discrimination is a serious issue that affects women all over the world, including in Ireland. It is women’s unfair workplace treatment due to pregnancy, childbirth, or maternity leave. In Ireland, it is against the law to discriminate against pregnant employees, giving birth or on maternity leave. However, despite the legal protections, many women still […]
Sexual Discrimination at Work in Ireland
Sexual discrimination is a pervasive problem in workplaces worldwide, including in Ireland. Despite laws and regulations protecting employees from this type of discrimination, it continues to occur in various forms, including harassment, bias, and unequal pay. In this article, we will delve into the issue of sexual discrimination at work in Ireland, exploring its causes, […]
The Burden of Proof in Discrimination Cases in Ireland
Discrimination is a major problem today and can take many forms, including age, gender, race, religion, disability and sexual orientation. Ireland’s solid legal system protects individuals from discrimination in employment, housing, education and other areas of life. However, proving discrimination can be difficult, and the burden of proof rests on the victim. This article examines […]
Understanding the Grievance Procedure in Ireland
A formal approach for an employee to bring up a concern or make a complaint to their employer is through a grievance procedure. What makes this significant now? It enables a transparent, reasonable, and equal approach to settling potential workplace conflicts, fostering a productive work environment. Importance of a Grievance Procedure A dedication to a […]
Gross Misconduct in Ireland: An Overview
Gross misconduct is a term used to describe severe breaches of an employee’s contract, which can result in the immediate termination of their employment. This usually involves actions or behaviours that are so severe that they undermine the trust and confidence between the employee and employer, making it impossible to continue the working relationship. The […]
Constructive Dismissal Ireland
Constructive Dismissal in Ireland can be a confusing and complex topic for both employees and employers. This comprehensive guide will explore the legalities and employee rights surrounding Constructive Dismissal in Ireland. We’ll explore the process, provide valuable tips, and answer some of this topic’s most frequently asked questions. Constructive Dismissal Ireland: The Basics What is […]
Guide to Redundancy Law in Ireland
Ireland’s Redundancy Act protects workers and employers who have lost their jobs for business reasons. This guide covers dismissal law, key aspects, employee and employer rights and obligations, dismissal procedures, payouts, and appeals. Let’s dive right into it. Key Aspects of Redundancy Law in Ireland Types of Redundancy There are two main types of redundancy […]
Redundancy Calculator Ireland: A Useful Tool
In the current economic climate, redundancies have become common in many industries across Ireland. Employers must follow specific procedures and guidelines when making employees redundant, and employees must understand their rights during this process. This is where a redundancy calculator in Ireland can come in handy. A redundancy calculator is an online tool that helps […]