
Rewind the clock – Proposed new legislation extends time limits for equality claims
The Equality (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2024 was published by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability and Youth on 15 January 2025. This complements the Maternity Protection (Amendment) (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill which appeared on the Legislation for priority publication in the 2024 Autum Session.
The Bill is at a very early stage and will have to take its place in the...

Performance Improvement Plans as precursors to termination offers held to be grounds for Constructive Dismissal
It has been the experience of this office, of a number of Irish employers adopting performance improvement plans (PIP) and whilst employees are in the currency of a PIP making termination offers to the employees. The WRC has helpfully clarified that such circumstances can be grounds for a constructive dismissal claim in a case skilfully advanced by Mr Conor McCrave of Setanta Solicitors.

Redundancy and Statutory Redundancy Payments
Redundancy is the termination of a contract of employment.
The Redundancy Payments Act 1967 sets out instances of redundancy. These criteria share the common trait of focusing on a change in the role, or the responsibilities that come with it, or both. Once an employee has been employed for in excess of 104 weeks, they are normally entitled to a statutory redundancy payment.

WRC Claims – The Data of Employment Disputes
In May 2024, the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) published its annual report. Our team at Setanta Solicitors has analysed this comprehensive document to offer readers a concise overview of the WRC’s performance in 2023.

A guide to Settlement Agreements in Ireland
Settlement Agreements stand as a vital tool for resolving disputes outside the confines of the traditional court setting. These agreements are legally binding contracts that outline the terms and conditions agreed upon by parties involved in a dispute, usually with the goal of conflict resolution. Moreover, they can be proactively used to pre-emptively address and settle foreseeable disputes.

Injunctions and Employment Injunctions
Sometimes in disputes, it is advisable to apply to court for an injunction or injunctive relief. Put simply, an injunction is an order, made by the courts, that restricts the ability of an individual or a group to do something. Examples include prohibiting the sale of property, the publication of a statement, or access to a premises. Disobeying an injunction can cause an individual to be held...

General and Critical Skills Employment Permits in Ireland – A 101 guide for applicants and their employers
Individuals born outside the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and the United Kingdom (UK) who wish to work in Ireland must secure a valid employment permit . However, navigating this process is notorious for its complexities and challenges.
Prospective applicants and their Irish employers often find themselves grappling with questions related to the suitable...

Employment Law and the Irish Defence Forces
Employment Law and the Irish Defence Forces incorporating the Independent Review Group (IRG) Report on Military Working Conditions.
In recent years, the Irish Defence Forces have encountered a series of formidable challenges. In this article, our Employment team explores a pivotal facet of these challenges: the deficiency of employment rights for members of the Irish Defence Forces. This...

Employment Status and Rights of Paid Interns and Unpaid Interns in Ireland
The central question when delving into the rights of interns revolves around their classification as ’employees.’ This significance arises from the fact that Irish employment legislation confers distinct rights exclusively upon those falling within the ‘employee’ category. Essentially, if interns do not fall into this classification, it suggests that they may not enjoy the same...

Do I need representation at the Workplace Relations Commission?
In this article, our primary focus will be on the significance of legal representation during WRC hearings. These hearings can be conducted either in person or virtually, providing both employees and employers with a platform to present their cases and relevant evidence. An adjudication officer presides over the proceedings, overseeing the hearing and ultimately rendering a decision....