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Irish employers face a wave of new legal obligations in 2025 as the government, EU directives, and global standards reshape the employment landscape. From minimum wage increases to the long-awaited pension auto-enrolment scheme, there are a number of important changes employers need to prepare for. These employment law changes in 2025 Ireland also include updates to maternity leave, the right to request remote working, expanded sick pay obligations, and new reporting requirements under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). In parallel, EU-level regulations on platform work and AI in HR introduce significant oversight on how employers manage technology and employment [...]

AI in the workplace is already transforming everyday operations, driving efficiency and productivity across industries—from automating emails to streamlining scheduling. Unlike previous technological shifts, this AI revolution is unfolding quietly, without major announcements, as businesses gradually incorporate AI-powered tools into their workflows. Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and IBM Watson are reshaping business operations. They assist in tasks such as content creation, data analysis, customer service, and HR functions. These tools help streamline hiring, enhance decision-making, and improve real-time analytics, allowing businesses to focus on high-value work. As AI capabilities expand, employers must understand its implications, implement clear [...]

The childcare crisis in Ireland is making it harder for businesses to attract and retain skilled employees. Rising childcare costs and limited availability force many parents—especially mothers—to reduce their working hours or leave the workforce altogether. This growing challenge is reducing workforce participation and increasing staff turnover, creating recruitment difficulties for employers. Ireland has some of the highest childcare costs in the OECD, with Dublin’s costs 10% higher than Cork's and 50% higher than Limerick's. A recent survey found that 90% of businesses report childcare issues affecting hiring, with one in five identifying them as the primary barrier to recruitment. [...]

Staying ahead of employment law changes in Ireland is essential for employers aiming to remain compliant and competitive. The legislative updates for 2024/25 introduce significant reforms across various areas, from workplace pensions and gender pay gap reporting to maternity leave and collective redundancy procedures. These changes are set to reshape how businesses manage their workforce and fulfil legal obligations. Employers must prepare for these changes by understanding their implications and proactively addressing potential challenges. Key updates include the introduction of the auto-enrolment pension scheme, expanded gender pay gap reporting thresholds, and new provisions under the Maternity Protection (Amendment) Bill 2024. [...]

The Labour Employment Rights Bill introduces sweeping changes that will reshape how businesses manage their workforce and comply with employment law. With its focus on enhancing employee protections and fostering fair practices, this legislation is poised to impact industries across the UK. Business owners must act now to understand these changes, assess their implications, and adapt their operations to stay compliant. The bill covers key areas such as day-one protection from unfair dismissal, restrictions on fire-and-rehire practices, and expanded rights for flexible working and statutory leave. It also introduces stricter regulations on zero-hours contracts, trade union reforms, and the creation [...]

The Employment Permits Act 2024 introduces significant updates to Ireland's work permit regulations, aiming to modernise hiring practices, strengthen compliance, and support key industries. This transformative legislation is designed to align with Ireland's evolving economic goals and labour market demands, making it easier for employers to hire foreign talent while ensuring workers' rights are protected. Let’s dive into the key highlights, compliance requirements, and sector-specific impacts of this new Act, along with practical steps to help employers navigate these changes. Key Changes in the Employment Permits Act The Employment Permits Act 2024 brings fresh clarity to work permit regulations while [...]

From October 2024, UK employers will have a legal duty to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace, marking a significant shift in workplace protections. This change, introduced through the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Bill, places proactive responsibilities on employers to ensure their environments are safe and inclusive. Employers who fail to meet these new standards could face serious legal and financial repercussions. More importantly, businesses risk damaging their reputation and trust with employees and clients. What’s Changing and Why? The legislation brings two major changes: A New Preventive Duty: Employers will need to show they have taken [...]