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 the company in May 2023 and had no issues with her performance at first. But after telling her manager in August that she was pregnant, her situation changed.
She was put on a performance improvement plan (PIP) just weeks later. That plan ended early and she was dismissed in November 2023.
What Did the WRC Say?
The WRC found that Ms. O’Connor was treated unfairly because of her pregnancy. The adjudicator ruled that her dismissal was discriminatory. The company was ordered to pay her €10,415 in compensation.
This case shows how important it is for employers to follow the law when it comes to pregnancy and gender equality.
What Does the Law Say?
In Ireland, the Employment Equality Act 1998 protects employees from being treated unfairly due to pregnancy. The law says it is illegal to treat someone worse just because they are pregnant.
The Maternity Protection Act 1994 also gives rights to pregnant workers. This includes the right to maternity leave and protection from dismissal.
What Should Employers Do?
This ruling is a reminder that employers need to follow the law. Here are a few key steps to avoid discrimination:
- Don’t treat pregnant employees differently or unfairly
- Don’t use performance plans as a cover for dismissal
- Keep clear records of all employee issues and actions taken
- Make adjustments if a pregnant employee needs them for health or safety
- Be fair and respectful in all communications
Why This Case Matters
This case highlights that discrimination still happens—even in 2025. Dismissing someone because of pregnancy is not only wrong, it’s against the law.
Employers must create a safe, respectful workplace where people feel supported—especially during pregnancy.
Final Thoughts
If you are an employee who believes you’ve been treated unfairly due to pregnancy, you may have legal options. And if you’re an employer, it’s time to review your workplace policies and make sure they protect everyone equally.
