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Workplace Rights

Know Your Rights: A Guide to Employee Rights and Entitlements


As a student, it’s essential to understand your rights at work! Whether you're working part-time during studies or getting started with your first full-time role, knowing your entitlements ensures you're treated fairly and can make the most of every opportunity. Here’s a quick rundown of key rights and entitlements every employee in Ireland should know.
 

1. Minimum Wage

  • All employees are entitled to a minimum wage. Rates may vary based on age, but you can always check the current rates to make sure you’re being paid fairly!
     

2. Breaks & Rest Periods

  • You’re entitled to rest breaks during the day and a minimum of 11 consecutive hours of rest between work shifts. This is vital for keeping a healthy balance between work, studies, and life!
     

3. Paid Annual Leave

  • Every employee is entitled to paid holiday time, typically 4 weeks per year. Make sure you know your leave rights so you can recharge without worrying about income.
     

4. Public Holidays

  • In addition to annual leave, employees are entitled to paid leave on public holidays. If you work on a holiday, you may be eligible for extra pay or time off.
     

5. Protection Against Unfair Dismissal

  • If you’ve worked with an employer for at least a year, you’re protected from unfair dismissal. This means employers must have fair reasons and follow a process if they terminate employment.
     

6. Sick Leave and Sick Pay

  • Many employers provide paid sick leave, but starting in 2023, you’re entitled to statutory sick pay. This covers you if you need time off due to illness.
     

7. Maternity, Paternity, and Parental Leave

  • Employees have rights to maternity, paternity, and parental leave. This means you can take time to care for a new child or handle family obligations without risking your job.
     

8. Workplace Safety

  • Every employer must provide a safe working environment. If you believe your workplace is unsafe, you have the right to speak up or seek advice.
     

9. Equal Treatment

  • Discrimination in the workplace is illegal. You’re entitled to fair treatment regardless of age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics.
     

10. Access to Payslips

  • Every employee has the right to a payslip detailing earnings, deductions, and net pay. This transparency ensures you understand what you’re being paid and why.
     

Need Help?

If you’re facing issues at work or simply want to learn more about your rights, reach out to your VP Welfare & Equality (welfare@msu.ie) or visit Citizens Information for detailed info. Knowing your rights is key to a fair and supportive work experience!

 

Trade Unions

Join a Union – Empower Your Voice!


Are you a worker? Joining a trade union is a game-changer! It’s your go-to for support with any workplace issues, a solidarity network with colleagues in your sector, and a community of fellow workers proudly standing up for each other's rights. And guess what? Union membership isn’t just for the employed! Even if you're not currently working, you can join unions like a housing union to stay connected and supported.

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) is the umbrella organisation for trade unions, representing a range of interests of ICTU members, both in Ireland and in Northern Ireland. ICTU has information if you want to join a union. Visit their website and explore the wide variety of unions in Ireland you can join. Have questions? Email welfare@msu.ie and we'll help you get started!