Employment conditions in Ireland

Terms and conditions of employment

Employers in Ireland must provide clear employment terms to every employee. The contract outlines job duties, pay, working hours, and other key terms. All employees must receive a written statement containing these terms within two months of starting work.

Probation period

Probation periods are commonly used to assess a new employee’s suitability for a role. Under Irish law, the probation period usually cannot exceed six months.

• The standard probation period is up to six months.
• In specific cases, probation may be extended for up to an extra six months, but only if it is in the best interest of the employee or if required due to periods of absence during probation.
• The probation terms and length must be stated in the employment contract.

Grievance and disciplinary procedures

Employers must have established procedures for handling employee grievances and disciplinary matters. These procedures must be documented in writing and conform to Ireland’s Code of Practice on Grievance and Disciplinary Procedures.

• All employees must receive a copy of these procedures within 28 days of beginning their employment.
• The process typically starts informally, with warnings where necessary. More serious or repeated issues may lead to formal procedures.
• Formal processes can include written warnings and may result in dismissal if problems persist.
• If an employee is dismissed, they may request a written statement of the reasons. Employers must provide this statement within 14 days of receiving the request.

Working hours and payment

Irish law sets maximum limits on working hours and requires accurate recordkeeping for hours worked. Employees are entitled to regular pay periods and payslips showing wage calculations and deductions. Overtime rules may apply depending on the contract terms.

Leave entitlements

Employees in Ireland benefit from various types of leave. Entitlements include:

• Annual leave: Paid holidays based on work completed.
• Sick leave: Statutory sick pay in line with government guidelines.
• Parental, maternity, and paternity leave: Available to qualifying employees in accordance with national law.

End of employment

Dismissal, redundancy, or resignation must follow proper procedures. Notice periods apply, and final payments and documentation should be provided according to statutory rules and the employment contract.

Employee rights and protections

Employees in Ireland have a range of legal protections against unfair treatment and discrimination. All workers are entitled to fair pay, safe working conditions, and protection from unfair dismissal.