Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 July 2015
174. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will detail compliance with the Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act 1996; the number of completed inspections; the number of compliant inspections; the number of prosecutions initiated; the number of convictions in the years 2012 to 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27286/15]
View answerThe following table provides details of the overall number of employment rights cases completed for the years 2012-2014 inclusive. All inspections include the Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act, 1996 as part of the inspection process.
|
Year |
Number of Completed Inspections |
PYP Compliance Rate |
Number of Prosecutions Initiated |
Number of Convictions |
|
2012 |
4,689 |
99.8% |
0 |
0 |
|
2013 |
5,546 |
99.8% |
1 |
1 |
|
2014 |
5,591 |
99.6% |
0 |
0 |
The National Employment Rights Authority (NERA) seeks to achieve a culture of compliance with employment law, by informing employers and employees of their respective responsibilities and entitlements, and by working in close cooperation with them and their representatives. In some cases, where inspectors encounter minor or sometimes inadvertent breaches, the employer is asked to rectify them and where the matter is rectified to the satisfaction of the inspector, the matter is closed.
There are times, however, where it is necessary and appropriate to invoke legal sanctions against non-compliant employers who refuse to comply or have been found repeatedly to be in breach of the law. However, such cases only amount to approximately 1.5% of all employment rights cases completed.
The Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act 1996 is designed to protect the health of young workers and to ensure that work during the school years does not put a young person’s education at risk. The provisions of the Act encompass arrangements that are differentiated by reference to the age of young persons concerned, their school going status and whether school holidays are in effect.
It is an increasing reality that many young people are taking on jobs, both part time and full time during holiday periods. While many enjoy a positive experience there is a risk that others may be exploited. It is important, therefore, that young people are aware of their rights and the steps they can take when those rights are breached. Prospective employers and employees are encouraged to make themselves aware of their respective obligations and rights under the Act. Comprehensive information is available from the Workplace Relations Customer services (WRCS) at www.workplacerelations.ie. The service is provided through a contact centre in relation to employment, equality and in relation to industrial relations rights and obligations. The service can also be contacted on lo-call 1890 80 80 90.
