| 1. Is it a legal
requirement that employees must receive an employment
contract ? |
No, except if it is a fixed term
contract. |
| 2. What factors constitute
a fair dismissal i.e.legally justifiable reasons to
terminate employment without the need to pay compensation?
|
If the dismissal is for economic
or operational reasons of the company/business and there
is a need to reduce employees; or for gross misconduct/just
cause or violation of the contract. |
| 3. What is good practice
with regard to dismissal procedures to minimise the
risk of claims for unfair dismissal? |
Clear procedures with regard to consultation,
allowing the employee to defend him/herself and present
evidence up to a final report; the right to appeal to
a court. Procedures should be followed even in cases
of gross misconduct. |
| 4. If an employee
is dismissed unfairly what is the financial range of
compensation that can be made to employees? |
Reinstatement or compensation (one
months salary for each year of service - minimum 3 months
salary); plus the salary since dismissal and the judgement. |
| 5. Do employees have
the right to be members of a trade union? |
Yes |
| 6. Is there any legal
requirement for an employer to contribute to a pension
for employees? |
No, but social security payments
are 23.75% of salary for the employer and 11% - employee. |
| 7. What are standard
maternity rights? |
Up to 4 months leave
(and rights to breast feed for up to 1 hour per day
for one year); fathers can take 2 months of the 4 months
leave. |
| 8. What are parental
leave rights (including paternity leave)? |
| 9. When are employees
eligible for redundancy payments? |
See 4 above. |
| 10. What are the
statutory redundancy payment limits? |
| 11. Can existing
employees be dismissed if you buy a business with employees? |
No (except for collective dismissals
to reorganise the whole company or by mutual agreement). |
| 12. Any other general
legislation? |
The range of EU legislation (e.g.
anti-discrimination and working time/harassment regulations
etc.) |
