Ireland’s framework is common-law based, layered with statutory protections that bite mainly after the employee has qualifying service.
Hiring and terms
Employers must give a written statement of core terms early in the employment, and may set a probationary period.
The Unfair Dismissals Acts
Under the Unfair Dismissals Acts, an employee generally needs 12 months’ continuous service to bring a claim; a dismissal must then have a fair reason (conduct, capability, redundancy, etc.) and follow fair procedures.
Notice, redundancy and claims
Statutory minimum notice rises with service. Employees with two years’ service made redundant are entitled to a statutory redundancy lump sum. Disputes are heard by the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).
For foreign employers
Fair procedure — not just a fair reason — is where claims are won or lost. A verified Irish colleague can build a defensible process and handle any WRC claim.
Thresholds and procedure change — confirm with admitted Irish counsel.