The evolving landscape of employment law in Ireland has seen some big changes that have and will continue to affect tech workers in various ways. As the tech industry remains one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country, understanding the latest legal developments is essential for any candidates looking at tech jobs in Ireland.
Below, we take a look at some of the most significant reforms in Irish employment law and their impact on tech professionals and the Irish tech jobs market.
1. Right to Request Remote Work
The shift to remote work, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has redefined how we work around the world, especially in the tech sector. In Ireland, the government has responded to this shift by introducing the Right to Request Remote Work Bill. The bill is designed to formalize the process for employees to request remote working arrangements from their employers, providing greater clarity and structure around the process.
For tech workers in Ireland, remote work has become a norm rather than an exception. The new legislation came into effect in March 2024. It allows workers to request remote work under specific conditions. Employers will have to respond to these requests within a set time frame, and only a limited number of reasons will justify a refusal.
Implications for Tech Workers
Flexibility: More opportunities for tech workers to maintain a work-life balance, particularly in roles that are suited to remote work.
Employment Contracts: Future employment contracts in the tech industry may include clauses on remote work, giving employees more leverage when negotiating work conditions.
Job Mobility: With remote work becoming more widely accepted, tech workers can apply for positions across the country, increasing job mobility without relocating.
2. Gender Pay Gap Reporting
The issue of pay equity has always been a hot topic in Ireland particularly when it comes to the gender pay gap. In 2022, the Irish government enacted legislation requiring companies with more than 250 employees to report on their gender pay gaps. In 2024 this changed to companies with more than 150 employees, and in 2025 this will apply to companies with more than 50 employees.
For tech workers, this legislation aims to ensure greater transparency in salary structures and promote equality in pay for both men and women. The tech industry, often criticized for gender disparities, especially in senior roles, is now subject to these new reporting requirements.
Implications for Tech Workers
Increased Transparency: Tech workers in Ireland can expect more transparency from their employers, ensuring that salaries are more equitable across the board.
Career Advancement: Gender pay gap reporting could incentivize tech companies to promote more women into leadership positions, helping to address historical inequalities in the industry.
Attraction of Talent: Companies with low gender pay gaps may gain a competitive edge in attracting top talent by demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
3. Employment Contracts and Terms
Recent changes in Irish employment law are also addressing the fairness and clarity of employment contracts, especially concerning minimum notice periods, probationary periods, and the terms of temporary contracts. The EU Work-Life Balance Directive, which Ireland had previously implemented, required employers to provide greater certainty around working hours and leave entitlements. This has now been transposed by The Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 2023 which offers even greater protections.
Tech workers, who often work in dynamic and fast-paced environments, already benefit from these enhanced contractual protections. The directive aims to ensure that employees receive transparent information about their rights and that contracts include clear terms around probation, notice periods, and leave entitlements.
Implications for Tech Workers
Contract Transparency: Employment contracts need to be more explicit about working hours, probation periods, and any changes in terms of employment.
Improved Work-Life Balance: The directive encourages flexible working arrangements and parental leave, which could improve work-life balance for tech professionals, especially those with family commitments and those who care for others.
Security of Employment: Stricter regulations around the termination of temporary contracts will provide more job security for tech workers, who may often work on project-based or fixed-term contracts.
4. Right to Disconnect
Another key development was the introduction of the Right to Disconnect policy, which came into effect in 2021 and continues to influence the employment landscape. This right gives employees the legal protection to disconnect from work outside of their normal working hours. Given the increasing use of digital tools in tech roles, where workers can often be expected to respond to emails or messages around the clock, this policy ensures a healthier balance between professional and personal life.
The right to disconnect is critical for tech workers, many of whom face the risk of burnout due to high demands and constant connectivity in the digital workplace.
Implications for Tech Workers
Better Work-Life Balance: Tech employees are entitled to switch off from work outside of contracted hours, reducing the risk of burnout and stress.
Healthier Workplace Culture: Employers need to establish policies and set clear boundaries around after-hours communication, leading to a healthier workplace culture.
Increased Productivity: A better work-life balance could ultimately lead to higher productivity, as employees are better rested and more focused during working hours.
5. Workplace Well-being and Mental Health
A growing emphasis on workplace well-being and mental health is influencing employment law reforms in Ireland. While this is not a specific legislative update, the government and businesses alike are taking proactive steps to address mental health in the workplace. For tech workers, who often deal with high-pressure environments, this focus is particularly relevant.
Implications for Tech Workers
Mental Health Support: Employers are increasingly offering mental health resources and services, such as counseling and mental health days.
Reduced Stigma: With mental health becoming a key focus in employment law and company policies, tech professionals may feel more comfortable seeking help and support when needed.
Workplace Policies: Companies will be expected to implement more comprehensive well-being programs to comply with best practices and legal expectations.
Employment law in Ireland brings significant benefits to tech workers. Whether it's the right to request remote work, increased transparency around pay, or better protections within employment contracts, these changes aim to promote fairness, well-being, and a healthier work-life balance for professionals working in tech jobs in Ireland.
It’s always a good idea to stay on top of these changes in law and to know your rights before making the move to a new employer. And speaking of which, if you are looking to make a career change and want to know what’s available out there right now, check out our tech jobs page. Or if you’d rather speak with one of the team you can get in touch and let us know your plans.