Employment Law Updates Every Local Employer Should Know

Employment law in Ireland continues to evolve, and it can be difficult for small and medium employers to keep on top of every change. Here's a plain-language summary of some of the areas we're advising local businesses on most often at the moment.

Statutory sick pay entitlements have continued to be phased in gradually, and employers should ensure payroll and HR policies reflect the current entitlement correctly, as this is an area the Workplace Relations Commission actively monitors.

We're also seeing continued attention on flexible and remote working requests. While employers retain discretion to refuse a request on legitimate business grounds, that refusal needs to be properly considered and documented — an informal "no" is no longer enough to withstand scrutiny.

On dismissals, the core principles remain unchanged: a fair process matters as much as the underlying reason. Employers who skip proper procedure — even where there are good grounds for dismissal — leave themselves exposed to an unfair dismissal claim.

If you're an employer and haven't reviewed your staff handbook or contracts of employment in the last couple of years, now is a good time to do so.

"A fair process matters as much as the underlying reason for a dismissal."