The following figures provide an update on the information provided in October 2003 and state the position up to the end of the year. The numbers of workplace inspections-visits for each month in 2003 are set out in the following table.
As stated previously, a new electronic case management system was introduced into the labour inspectorate in June 2003. For the period following its introduction the old system also continued in use. In December, staff concentrated on ensuring all relevant data was finally committed to this legacy system and its day-to-day use then ceased. This work, together with the earlier preparations for the introduction of the new system, impacted on inspectorate activity both early in the year and in December. However, I am confident that this work and investment in technology, together with other actions that have been completed, such as the streamlining of procedures, ensures that the inspectorate is enabled to provide an effective and efficient service going forward.
There are no plans, at this stage, to increase the number of labour inspectors. I am satisfied the investment and actions described above will, as far as possible, ensure that employment rights and entitlements of all employees working in Ireland are protected.
Month
|
Inspections/Visits
|
Month
|
Inspections/Visits
|
January
|
731
|
July
|
876
|
February
|
421
|
August
|
1,085
|
March
|
142
|
September
|
974
|
April
|
35
|
October
|
1,065
|
May
|
242
|
November
|
731
|
June
|
612
|
December
|
254
|
These figures amount to a total of 7,168.